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The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

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  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
  • Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.

    • Pro Tip: If you’re adding bacon, chicken, or veggies, fold them into the sauce now.

    Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

    1. Add the cooked penne to the sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
    2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

    Step 4: Assemble and Bake

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Pour the creamy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
    3. Sprinkle with an extra handful of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
    4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
    5. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes — keep an eye on it!

    🧀 Serving Suggestions

    Serve this creamy baked penne hot out of the oven with:

    • A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
    • Garlic bread or a warm baguette
    • A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

    Leftovers? No problem. This dish reheats beautifully, and the flavors deepen overnight.

    📝 Tips for the Best Baked Penne

    • Cheese matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
    • Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked is best so it doesn’t turn mushy after baking.
    • Mix up the add-ins: This is a great clean-out-the-fridge recipe — leftover rotisserie chicken, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms all work wonderfully.

    ❤️ Why You’ll Love It

    This baked penne pasta is the definition of indulgent comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a go-to that you’ll come back to again and again.

    Make it once — and it might just become your signature dish. 😉

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