The Best Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

Instructions for Making the Best Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

This creamy baked penne pasta recipe is simple to make, but the results are nothing short of impressive. With just a few steps, you’ll have a rich and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente (firm to the bite), which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
2. Add the Liquids: Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Cheeses: Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the creamy sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Be sure the pasta is well mixed with the creamy goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Penne

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Add Topping Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta for a golden, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake the Penne

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
2. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Scoop out generous portions of the creamy baked penne pasta onto plates and enjoy this rich, comforting dish. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

• Use Fresh Pasta: If you have access to fresh pasta, feel free to use it in place of dried penne. Fresh pasta will cook more quickly, so be mindful of the cooking time.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the pasta filling before baking. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach can also be added for extra flavor and texture.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more heavy cream or cheese. If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute part of the cream with more milk or use a reduced-fat version.
• Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. It gives the dish a flavorful kick.
• Make Ahead: This creamy baked penne pasta can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the unbaked pasta. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove from the freezer and bake directly (you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time).

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Baked Penne Pasta is a perfect dish for anyone who loves cheesy, rich pasta with a creamy sauce. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this baked penne pasta will quickly become your go-to comfort food recipe. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Enjoy!