Italian-Inspired Baked Penne Recipe

Italian-inspired baked penne is a classic comfort dish that combines the rich flavors of Italy into a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in. With its layers of pasta, flavorful sauce, and creamy cheese blend, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite for pasta lovers worldwide.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and softened.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Mix the Cheese:

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix well.

4. Assemble the Dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce.
3. Add a layer of penne, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture.
4. Repeat layers, ending with sauce on top.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top.

5. Bake:

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Serve:

1. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley or basil.

History

Baked pasta dishes have roots in Italian cuisine, specifically in the southern regions like Campania and Sicily. These dishes evolved as a way to use simple ingredients like pasta, tomatoes, and cheese to create filling, flavorful meals. The introduction of ricotta and mozzarella cheese brought a creamy, rich texture to baked pasta dishes like this one.

Benefits

• Rich in carbohydrates for energy.
• Loaded with protein from cheese and egg.
• Provides essential vitamins like Vitamin C and A from tomatoes.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of baked penne (about 1 cup) provides approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g

Conclusion

Italian-inspired baked penne is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal with family, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Who Loves It?

This dish is loved by pasta enthusiasts, cheese lovers, and anyone who appreciates the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.