Oh, the endless quest for that perfect weeknight meal! As Julia, an enthusiastic food lover always exploring new flavors and ingredients, I know the struggle. There are those evenings when you walk through the door, bags in hand, brain already fried, and the idea of whipping up something delicious feels like climbing Mount Everest.
That’s exactly how I felt one Tuesday, years ago. I craved comfort, something warm, gooey, and satisfying, but I had absolutely no energy for a complicated culinary adventure. That night, born out of necessity and a love for all things cheesy, I stumbled upon a recipe that would change my weeknight game forever: the ultimate Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
It was simple, it was quick, and it delivered on every single comfort food promise. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a revelation for busy lifestyles, a culinary hug after a long day, and a guaranteed family favorite.
This Easy Cheesy Baked Penne has since become my go-to, my secret weapon for those moments when only pure, unadulterated comfort will do. Trust me, once you make this incredibly satisfying Easy Cheesy Baked Penne, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Baked Penne Recipe
This Easy Cheesy Baked Penne isn’t just a meal; it’s a solution. You’ll adore this recipe for so many reasons, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. First, it’s incredibly straightforward.
Even on your busiest evenings, you can easily assemble this dish without stress. We’re talking minimal fuss, maximum flavor. Second, the taste factor is off the charts.
Imagine tender penne pasta swimming in a rich, savory tomato sauce, layered with a trifecta of melted cheeses. Every bite of this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is pure bliss, a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
The versatility of this cheesy baked penne means you can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it incredibly economical and waste-reducing. Furthermore, this dish is hearty and filling, ensuring everyone leaves the table completely satisfied. When you need a dependable, delicious, and utterly comforting meal, this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne truly delivers.
It elevates humble ingredients into an extraordinary experience, and you deserve that kind of culinary joy in your life. This baked penne recipe provides a fantastic opportunity to bring fresh ideas to your kitchen, proving that easy recipes can still be incredibly gourmet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this spectacular Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is the first step to a truly delightful meal. You’ll find most of these items are pantry staples, making this a convenient choice for any night of the week. Fresh, quality ingredients make all the difference in the final taste of your cheesy baked penne.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 450g lean ground beef or lamb
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 794g can crushed tomatoes
- 170g can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 450g penne pasta
- 225g ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 cups (about 225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Substitutions & Variations
The beauty of this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne lies in its adaptability. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or what you simply have on hand. Feel free to experiment and make this cheesy baked penne your own culinary masterpiece.
- Meat Alternatives: If you prefer not to use ground beef or lamb, you can substitute it with ground chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian version of this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables or a can of drained lentils to the sauce. Hearty mushrooms also make an excellent meat substitute.
- Vegetable Boost: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce alongside the onion. Sauté them until tender before adding the meat. A handful of fresh baby spinach wilted into the sauce at the end is also a fantastic addition to this baked penne.
- Cheese Swaps: Don’t have ricotta? Cottage cheese works wonderfully as a substitute, offering a similar creamy texture. You can also mix in other shredded cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a pre-mixed Italian blend with your mozzarella for extra depth of flavor in your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
- Spice Level: If you love a bit more kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. For a milder version, omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. Instead of dried oregano and basil, use a tablespoon of fresh chopped oregano and basil. Rosemary or thyme also complement the tomato sauce beautifully in this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, simply use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Sauce Flavor: For a richer sauce, a splash of red wine can be added after browning the meat and deglazed before adding the crushed tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps for a perfect, comforting meal every time. This recipe makes the most delicious baked penne!
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne doesn’t stick.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente – usually 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time. Remember, it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the browned meat. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to deepen its flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water or broth. Add the sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This mixture adds incredible creaminess to your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained al dente penne pasta directly to the simmering meat sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.
- Layer the Dish: Spread half of the pasta and meat sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta layer, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Second Layer: Top with the remaining pasta and meat sauce mixture. Spread evenly. Add the remaining ricotta mixture in dollops, and then generously sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. This layering technique guarantees a beautifully cheesy baked penne.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Let your delicious Easy Cheesy Baked Penne rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the pasta to absorb more sauce and makes it easier to serve.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving a truly outstanding Easy Cheesy Baked Penne involves a few simple tricks that elevate it from good to absolutely phenomenal. These professional insights ensure your cheesy baked penne turns out perfectly every single time.
- Don’t Overcook Your Pasta: This is crucial! Cook your penne to just shy of al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, and you want it to be firm but not hard when you mix it with the sauce. Overcooked pasta turns mushy, ruining the texture of your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: While this recipe is forgiving, using good quality crushed tomatoes and fresh, flavorful cheeses makes a noticeable difference. A rich, robust tomato sauce forms the backbone of this comforting dish.
- Layering is Key: Don’t skip the layering step! Alternating the pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella ensures that every forkful of your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness. This creates pockets of deliciousness throughout the dish.
- Drain Excess Fat: When browning the ground meat, always drain off any excess fat. This prevents your sauce from becoming greasy and heavy, keeping the flavors clean and vibrant in your cheesy baked penne.
- Season Throughout: Taste and adjust seasoning at every stage – the meat, the sauce, and even the ricotta mixture. Proper seasoning builds layers of flavor that make the final Easy Cheesy Baked Penne truly exceptional. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper.
- Rest Time is Essential: After baking, let your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheeses to set slightly, the flavors to meld further, and the sauce to be better absorbed by the pasta. It also makes serving much cleaner and easier.
- Get a Good Sear on the Meat: Before breaking it up completely, allow your ground meat to get a nice sear in the pan. This develops deeper, richer flavors that transfer wonderfully to the final sauce for your baked penne.
Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the fantastic benefits of this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is how well it stores and reheats, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. You can savor this delicious cheesy baked penne for days.
- Refrigeration: Allow the Easy Cheesy Baked Penne to cool completely to room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well!
- Baked and Cooled: Once the baked penne has cooled completely, you can freeze it in individual portions or as a whole dish. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place in freezer-safe airtight containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Unbaked (Make Ahead): You can also assemble the entire Easy Cheesy Baked Penne up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, possibly adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- Reheating (Oven): For best results and to retain that lovely crispy top, reheat portions or the entire dish in the oven. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crisper top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. This method works wonderfully for both refrigerated and thawed portions of your cheesy baked penne.
- Reheating (Microwave): For a quick reheat, individual portions of Easy Cheesy Baked Penne can be microwaved. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. Be aware that the texture of the cheese might not be as good as oven reheating.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate the dining experience. A well-chosen accompaniment complements the rich flavors of this cheesy baked penne perfectly.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the Easy Cheesy Baked Penne. It adds freshness and a delightful textural contrast. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Ciabatta: You absolutely need something to sop up all that delicious extra sauce! Warm, buttery garlic bread or a crusty piece of ciabatta is an ideal companion.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Simple steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or asparagus tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper add a healthy, vibrant touch. They provide a nice balance to the comforting baked penne.
- Caprese Salad: For a slightly more elegant touch, a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a beautiful, fresh complement. It’s light and refreshing alongside your Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
- Red Wine: If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, a medium-bodied red like a Chianti, Merlot, or Zinfandel pairs beautifully with the rich tomato and cheese flavors of this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious Easy Cheesy Baked Penne.
Can I make Easy Cheesy Baked Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Easy Cheesy Baked Penne dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to come closer to room temperature, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Is this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This specific recipe includes ground meat. However, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef/lamb and replacing it with extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, or by adding a can of drained lentils or plant-based ground meat substitute. The cheesy baked penne remains delicious!
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese for my Easy Cheesy Baked Penne?
No problem! Cottage cheese is an excellent substitute for ricotta in this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne. It offers a similar creamy texture and mild flavor. Just make sure to use small-curd cottage cheese or give it a quick pulse in a food processor if you prefer a smoother texture.
How long does Easy Cheesy Baked Penne last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover Easy Cheesy Baked Penne will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for delicious meal prep throughout the week.
Can I freeze Easy Cheesy Baked Penne?
Yes, this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne freezes wonderfully! You can freeze it baked or unbaked. For best results, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
It maintains its quality in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or baking.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The nutritional values for this Easy Cheesy Baked Penne are estimates and can vary based on specific brands of ingredients, exact measurements, and substitutions. This information is provided as a general guide.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Easy Cheesy Baked Penne
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (optional)
Description
Easy Cheesy Baked Penne is a comforting and satisfying dish featuring tender penne pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights, it is simple to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 450g lean ground beef or lamb
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 794g can crushed tomatoes
- 170g can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 450g penne pasta
- 225g ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 cups (about 225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant
- Add the ground beef or lamb, cooking until fully browned. Drain excess fat
- Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for one minute, then add tomato paste and cook for another two minutes
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, water or broth, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer with the lid on for 15-20 minutes
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley with salt and pepper
- Combine drained penne pasta with the meat sauce, then layer half in the baking dish. Add dollops of ricotta mixture and half of the mozzarella
- Layer the remaining pasta and marinara, dollop with remaining ricotta, and top with mozzarella and parmesa
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golde
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving
Notes
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg