Description

There's something deeply comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal, especially when it's oozing with cheese and filled with savory goodness. Our recipe for Cheesy Baked Penne is a delightful take on classic Italian cuisine, bringing the joy of hearty food right to your dining table. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, making it perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a cozy night in. The tantalizing blend of melted cheese and rich tomato sauce enveloped in pasta will have your mouth watering from the moment it goes into the oven. With its tantalizing aroma and satisfying flavors, this recipe is a testament to the joy of home cooking. The best part? It's simple to prepare, making it a great choice for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:
• 1 pound penne pasta
• Salt, to taste
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Cheese Mixture:
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Additionally:
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Preparation Method

We'll start with the pasta. Cook the penne according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. You want the pasta to be al dente, or firm to the bite. Once it's cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

While the pasta is cooking, let's prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Now it's time to add the garlic. Stir it in and let it cook for a minute until it releases its wonderful aroma.

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this time.

While the sauce is simmering, let's create the cheese mixture. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix everything together until it's well combined.

Now, it's time to assemble your dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce. Layer half of the cooked penne over the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the pasta, then top with another layer of sauce. Repeat this process with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, this allows the flavors to settle and intensify.

Tips and Conclusion

Serve your Cheesy Baked Penne with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread for an even more satisfying meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.


Preparing this Cheesy Baked Penne is a joyful experience, from the aroma of simmering sauce to the sight of bubbling, golden cheese. Savoring your creation is even more delightful, bringing a taste of Italian comfort food to your table. If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore more of our delicious pasta dishes? Share this recipe with friends and family, and continue browsing our site for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!