If you are searching for a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Baked Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining perfectly cooked penne with a rich, savory meat sauce and a melty blend of cheeses, it comes together beautifully in the oven to create a golden, bubbling masterpiece. This dish is not only comfort food at its finest but also a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough for guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Baked Penne Recipe. Each component contributes something special—from the tender pasta to the aromatic herbs and the luscious mix of cheeses that top it off. These simple ingredients come together to build layers of flavor and texture you will love.
- 12 oz penne pasta: This tubular pasta holds sauce perfectly, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Gives a sweet, savory base to the meat sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant depth.
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Your choice for a hearty, meaty kick.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce: The tomatoey backbone that ties everything together.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds traditional Italian herb flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds lusciousness to the pasta mixture.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible gooey texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, sharp finish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing the dish’s flavors.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a splash of color when serving.
How to Make Baked Penne Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Boil the penne in generously salted water until it’s perfectly al dente—just tender but still firm to the bite. Drain it well and set it aside, ready to soak up all the delicious sauce you’ll make next.
Step 2: Build Your Flavorful Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat and toss in the chopped onion. Cook it gently until it softens, around 4 to 5 minutes, releasing its natural sweetness. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. Now, add your ground beef or Italian sausage and brown it thoroughly, breaking it up with your spoon for even cooking. If the pan collects excess fat, drain it to keep the sauce from getting greasy. Pour in the marinara sauce along with dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper and let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to marry all those incredible flavors.
Step 3: Combine Pasta, Ricotta, and Sauce
In a large bowl, gently fold the cooked penne with the warm meat sauce and creamy ricotta cheese. This step ensures every noodle is cozily wrapped in a velvety, savory mix that will turn wonderfully cheesy once baked.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top in a generous layer. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too fast and bake for 20 minutes. After this, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the top is irresistibly bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to settle and thicken slightly.
How to Serve Baked Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley are perfect garnishes that brighten this baked pasta dish beautifully. They add a burst of color and a pop of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat sauce, making each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty Baked Penne Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is classic and perfect for mopping up every last cheesy, saucy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked penne in individual ramekins or in a family-style casserole dish straight from the oven. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving. You can even top with sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a little flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover baked penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making it taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This Baked Penne Recipe freezes very well. Assemble the dish as instructed, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, a microwave works fine for individual servings, but baking helps the cheese regain its melty, bubbly texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal because of its shape, other sturdy pasta like rigatoni or ziti can also work well to hold the sauce and cheese nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the meat with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute and use your favorite marinara sauce. The ricotta and cheeses will keep it deliciously rich.
How can I make the baked penne recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce stage. You can also sprinkle some spicy pepper jack cheese on top for an extra kick.
Can I prepare the baked penne in advance?
Definitely. You can mix everything together and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes for an easy and quick meal solution.
What are some good cheese substitutes if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a great alternative to ricotta and provides a similar texture and mild flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing it into the pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Penne Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that brings comfort and joy to the table with every cheesy, saucy bite. It’s approachable, adaptable, and absolutely delicious—perfect for feeding family or impressing friends. I genuinely can’t recommend it enough, so go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a hearty Italian-American classic that’s destined to become one of your favorites too.
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Baked Penne Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Penne recipe features tender penne pasta combined with a savory meat and marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a cheesy mozzarella and Parmesan topping. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s an ideal comforting Italian-American main course perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prepping ahead.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Meat
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your baked penne doesn’t stick.
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside for combining later.
- Cook Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown Meat: Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Sauce and Season: Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer the sauce mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce and ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake Covered: Loosely cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and melt cheeses.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the baked penne to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta for a different texture or to stretch ingredients.
- Use a meatless marinara sauce to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
- This baked penne freezes well; assemble ahead of time and bake when ready for an easy meal prep option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
