Comforting Classic Pasta Dish

This hearty Cheesy Baked Penne has been my family's go-to comfort dish for years, combining al dente pasta with savory meat sauce and a rich blend of cheeses that create the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu dinner party during a snowstorm. My guests raved about it so much that it became our traditional Sunday dinner, with each family member taking turns adding their own special touch to the layers.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: perfectly captures sauce in its ridges and hollow centers
• Ground beef: provides hearty protein choose 85% lean for best flavor balance
• Marinara sauce: forms the base of flavor use your favorite jarred variety or homemade
• Diced tomatoes: add pleasant texture and bright acidity
• Ricotta cheese: creates creamy pockets throughout the casserole
• Three kinds of cheese: make this dish irresistibly gooey and flavorful
• Italian seasoning: brings classic herbal notes that complement the tomato sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous tablespoon of salt. The water should taste like the sea for properly seasoned pasta. Cook the penne about 2 minutes less than package directions until it still has a firm bite. This undercooking prevents mushy pasta after baking. After draining, toss with a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the other components.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

Start by heating your skillet before adding oil to ensure proper browning. Cook the ground beef by breaking it into small crumbles and allowing it to develop a deep brown color before stirring. This caramelization creates rich flavor compounds. Once browned, drain excess fat to prevent a greasy final dish. The onions should turn translucent and slightly golden before adding garlic to prevent burning. The brief simmer allows flavors to meld while concentrating the sauce slightly.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

The egg in the ricotta mixture acts as a binder, creating a custardlike texture when baked. Mix thoroughly but gently to keep the mixture light rather than dense. Make sure your ricotta is at room temperature for easier mixing with the other ingredients. The combination of different cheeses creates complex flavor layers from sharp parmesan to creamy mozzarella.

Assemble the Dish:

Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Each layer should be evenly distributed to ensure consistent flavor in every bite. Press down gently on the pasta when layering to eliminate air pockets. The final cheese topping should completely cover the surface to create that perfect golden crust everyone fights over.

Bake the Pasta:

Covering with foil for the initial baking period helps all ingredients heat evenly without burning the cheese. Removing the foil allows moisture to evaporate and the cheese to develop that desirable golden color and slight crispness. Monitor closely during the optional broiling step as it can quickly go from perfect to burnt.

Let It Rest and Serve:

The resting period is crucial as it allows the molten cheese to set slightly and the flavors to settle. This makes for cleaner serving and enhanced flavor. Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving for a bright color contrast and fresh flavor note.

Bookmark

My favorite part of this dish is the contrast between the crispy edges of the top pasta pieces and the creamy interior. I learned this technique from my Italian grandmother, who always said the secret to a perfect pasta bake was creating these textural contrasts. She would save a handful of cheese to sprinkle on during the last five minutes of baking for an extra crispy top.

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Baked Penne is ideal for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time. You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding about 15 minutes to the covered cooking time.

Bookmark

Vegetarian Adaptation

For a meatless version, substitute the ground beef with 2 cups of diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté them until slightly softened before adding the garlic and seasonings. You can also use plant-based ground meat alternatives or 2 cups of cooked lentils for protein. The vegetarian version develops a wonderful depth of flavor when you take the time to properly brown the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up the sauce. For a complete Italian dinner experience, start with a small antipasto platter and finish with a light dessert like fresh berries with whipped cream. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato and cheese flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and either leave it out completely or substitute with plant-based meat alternatives, chopped mushrooms, or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese makes an excellent substitute for ricotta, as mentioned in the ingredients. You could also use a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream, or for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze this baked pasta dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

→ What sides pair well with cheesy baked penne?

A simple green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli all complement this hearty pasta dish nicely. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with antipasto or a light Caesar salad.