Classic Baked Penne with Cheese

Name: Classic Baked Penne with Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 800 g canned crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; salt and pepper to taste; 400 g penne pasta; 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

60 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Enjoy a hearty and comforting classic baked penne with cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Baked penne is a beloved dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of a cheesy, tomato sauce. This version stands out thanks to its robust flavours and creamy texture, making it a favourite among both adults and children alike. Designed for those who enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen, our baked penne is straightforward to prepare yet delivers a delightful experience. The combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce is sure to become a staple in your household. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is an excellent choice when you need something filling and delicious. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees success.

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness.

Simmer the Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce in the saucepan, ensuring every piece of pasta is well-coated.

Pro tip: Combine the pasta and sauce gently to avoid breaking the pasta.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Pro tip: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavour.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality cheese for maximum flavour.
Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.
Let the dish rest before serving for better slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is baked penne?

Baked penne is a pasta dish where penne is mixed with sauce and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden brown.

How long to bake penne pasta?

Bake the penne pasta for about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Can you freeze baked penne?

Yes, baked penne can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How many calories in baked penne?

One serving of this baked penne recipe contains approximately 450 calories.

What cheese is best for baked penne?

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provide the best flavour and melting properties for baked penne.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked penne with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light red wine or a refreshing iced tea. You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Once baked, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.