Dive into the irresistible charm of baked penne! This creamy, cheesy pasta bake blends hearty flavors with a golden, bubbling top, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy dinner. Whether paired with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread, it’s a recipe everyone will love.
Simple to prepare yet packed with Italian-inspired goodness, baked penne delivers a comforting, home-cooked experience. With tender pasta, rich sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for seconds.
Ingredients that Make Baked Penne Shine
- Penne pasta – The ultimate pasta for capturing sauce and cheese in every bite.
- Lean ground beef – Adds a savory, meaty depth to the dish.
- Spaghetti sauce – Brings rich, tomatoey flavor with minimal effort.
- Garlic and onion – A classic aromatic duo that enhances every layer of flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A fragrant blend that ties the flavors together.
- Chive and onion cream cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy twist for extra indulgence.
- Mozzarella cheese – The gooey, melty topping that makes baked pasta irresistible.
Steps to Baked Penne Bliss
- Cook and sauté: Start by browning the ground beef with garlic and onion until fragrant and fully cooked.
- Mix and melt: Stir in the spaghetti sauce, cream cheese, and mozzarella until creamy and well blended.
- Fold in pasta: Combine the cooked penne with the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake to bubbling perfection.
Tips for Perfect Baked Penne
For a deeper flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and sausage, or substitute ground turkey for a lighter version. If you like spice, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
To ensure the pasta doesn’t overcook, boil it until al dente before combining it with the sauce. This way, it holds its texture during baking. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Indulge in this baked penne recipe for a comforting dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!
Baked Penne Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 pound lean ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper
- 1 jar 24 ounces spaghetti sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup yellow onion chopped
- 6 ounces chive and onion cream cheese divided
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, divided
- 1/2 pound penne pasta cooked (8 ounces)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large, non-stick skillet set over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine the spaghetti sauce, 4 ounces of the cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese in the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well blended, about 5 minutes. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Dot the remaining cream cheese across the surface and evenly distribute the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbling. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
