Easy Baked Penne Pasta
If you’re searching for a comforting, satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family, look no further than Easy Baked Penne Pasta. With layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and your favorite pasta sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this baked pasta recipe is a winning choice. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your cooking rotation and how you can create it in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Easy Baked Penne Pasta is not just another pasta dish; it’s a versatile meal that can adapt to your taste preferences. This recipe is incredibly forgiving, meaning you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. The combination of cottage cheese and sour cream creates a luscious, creamy base that pairs beautifully with the tangy pasta sauce and gooey mozzarella. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for busy families, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredient List
To make your Easy Baked Penne Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) box penne pasta
- 1 (24-ounce) jar pasta sauce (Choose your favorite brand and flavor)
- 8 ounces cottage cheese (low fat is fine)
- 8 ounces sour cream (low fat is fine)
- 5 cloves garlic (pressed)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large Pot: For boiling the penne pasta.
- Strainer: To drain the pasta after cooking.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the cheese mixture.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for layering and baking your pasta.
- Spoon or Spatula: For mixing and spreading ingredients evenly.
- Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
Easy Baked Penne Pasta Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your baked penne will cook evenly and get that deliciously golden top.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, and pressed garlic. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Mix the Pasta with Sauce
In the same pot you used for the pasta, combine the drained penne with your favorite pasta sauce. Stir until the pasta is well-coated.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
In your greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by adding half of the pasta mixture. Spread it out evenly. Next, spoon half of the cheese mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering with the remaining pasta and cheese mixtures, finishing with the last 2 cups of mozzarella on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Easy Baked Penne Pasta is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Variations by Season
Feel free to customize your Easy Baked Penne Pasta based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences:
- Spring: Add fresh spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Summer: Incorporate diced zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist.
- Fall: Mix in roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a cozy flavor.
- Winter: Use hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard for added texture.
Pro Perspective
This Easy Baked Penne Pasta is not only a fantastic comfort food, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or even some cooked ground turkey for added protein. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability; you can make it your own with just a few tweaks. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option. Make a double batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), you can refrigerate the Easy Baked Penne Pasta for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can vary.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta is a fantastic alternative that will give a similar creamy texture to your Easy Baked Penne Pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the Easy Baked Penne Pasta a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
What is the best way to store leftover pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
Desserts to Finish
After enjoying your Easy Baked Penne Pasta, why not indulge in a sweet treat? Here are some delightful dessert ideas to complement your meal:
Serve & Enjoy
Gather your loved ones around the table and serve up generous portions of your Easy Baked Penne Pasta. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Don’t forget to pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the smiles and compliments as you dig into this comforting classic!
This Easy Baked Penne Pasta will quickly become a staple in your home. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delightful meal that brings everyone together. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, and pressed garlic until smooth and creamy.
- In the same pot, mix the drained penne with your favorite pasta sauce until well coated.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, half of the cheese mixture, and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Customize with seasonal vegetables for added nutrition.
- Make a double batch for meal prep and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a different flavor.
