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Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the marinara sauce along with the dried oregano and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, combine it with the cooked penne pasta in a large mixing bowl. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Baked Penne
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Now it’s time to assemble the dish! In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a small amount of the pasta sauce at the bottom. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking. Then, layer in half of the pasta mixture.
Top the pasta with a generous layer of ricotta cheese, spreading it evenly across the top. Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Then, add the remaining pasta mixture and top it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the baked penne cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Italian-Inspired Baked Penne
- Customize your protein: If you’d like to add meat, ground beef, Italian sausage, or even chicken work wonderfully in this dish. Simply brown the meat before adding the sauce in Step 2.
- Add veggies: You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a healthier twist and more flavor.
- Use fresh mozzarella: For an extra creamy texture, consider using fresh mozzarella instead of shredded.
- Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time! Simply assemble it, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, but add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time.
Why This Is the Best Dinner Ever
Italian-Inspired Baked Penne is the ultimate comfort food. It brings together all the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine in one delicious, baked dish. The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese gives this dish its signature creamy texture, while the marinara sauce adds the perfect amount of tanginess. The pasta, coated in this decadent sauce and melted cheese, is pure comfort in every bite.
Not only does this recipe taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, this baked penne is the perfect choice.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent meal that embodies the heart of Italian cuisine, this Italian-Inspired Baked Penne recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and absolutely delicious.
So, the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, remember this recipe and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home. Buon appetito!
