Italian Baked Penne Casserole

Are you ready to indulge in a comforting and hearty dish that will warm your soul? This Italian Baked Penne Casserole is the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and the undeniable ease of preparation. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines succulent ground turkey, aromatic herbs, and melty mozzarella, all wrapped up in delicious penne pasta. Not only is it perfect for feeding a crowd, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Italian Baked Penne Casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines classic Italian flavors with simplicity. It’s packed with protein from the ground turkey, lots of savory garlic and onion, and is loaded with gooey mozzarella cheese. The layers of pasta create a satisfying texture that makes every bite delightful. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Best of all, it’s straightforward to prepare with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

Ingredients

To make this fantastic dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 54 ounces canned tomato sauce (2 cans)
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, diced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon onion powder (optional)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• 16 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2 pounds Italian seasoned ground turkey (or ground turkey + 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning)
• 2 pounds penne pasta
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Italian parsley, chopped, for garnish

How To Make Italian Baked Penne Casserole

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and turns beautifully golden on top.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add in the penne pasta and cook until al dente as per the package directions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add the Meat

Next, add the ground turkey (or packaged ground meat) to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine the Sauce

Pour in the canned tomato sauce and stir well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated. Transfer half of the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top it off with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped Italian parsley before serving. Enjoy your beautifully baked penne casserole with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for that authentic Italian experience!

Expert Tips

• For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free penne for a healthier alternative.
• For extra creaminess, mix in a cup of ricotta cheese after combining the pasta and meat sauce.
• If you have any leftover veggies in the fridge, feel free to toss those into the mixture for added nutrition!

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the ground turkey for ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.
• Use your favorite type of cheese! Cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses can add a unique twist.
• Add fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients and a beautiful color contrast.
• Transform it into a baked ziti by using ziti pasta instead of penne.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, but a possibility!), store them in an airtight container. The casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold when it goes in the oven.

Can I freeze Italian Baked Penne Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking! Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden. A good way to ensure it’s heated through is to insert a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, it’s ready to serve!

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Definitely! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of the dish. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried ones; for example, 6 tablespoons of fresh basil instead of 2 tablespoons of dried.

Conclusion

With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this Italian Baked Penne Casserole will soon become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s easy to prepare, offers flexibility for customization, and can serve a crowd or provide you with delightful leftovers for the week. Dig into this comforting dish tonight and take your taste buds on a culinary journey to Italy. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!