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– Salt and pepper to taste
### How to Make Italian-Inspired Baked Penne
#### Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the **penne pasta** according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Be sure to salt the water generously before boiling for enhanced flavor. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion** and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the **marinara sauce**, followed by the **dried oregano**, **dried basil**, and a pinch of **red pepper flakes** (if using). Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Once it’s ready, remove from heat.
#### Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the marinara sauce. Add the **ricotta cheese**, **parmesan cheese**, and **1.5 cups of mozzarella cheese**, then stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining **mozzarella cheese** on top of the pasta, covering it generously. If you like extra cheese, feel free to add more!
#### Step 5: Bake the Penne
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the baked penne is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with **fresh chopped parsley** or **basil** for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
### Tips for the Best Italian-Inspired Baked Penne
– **Use Homemade Marinara Sauce**: If you have time, homemade marinara sauce can take this dish to the next level. Simply cook tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs together to create a rich, flavorful base for your baked penne.
– **Customize with Meat or Vegetables**: Feel free to add cooked ground meat (such as beef, sausage, or turkey) or sautéed vegetables (like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini) to the sauce for extra protein and flavor.
– **Add Fresh Herbs**: While dried herbs are great, fresh basil or oregano added at the end can enhance the flavor of the dish. A little extra sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving makes a beautiful and aromatic finish.
– **Make Ahead and Freeze**: This dish is ideal for making ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
– **Adjust the Cheese**: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella or even add provolone or gouda for a slightly different flavor profile.
### Why This Italian-Inspired Baked Penne is the Best Dinner Ever
This dish embodies all the best qualities of Italian comfort food: hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of **tender penne**, **rich marinara sauce**, and **melted cheese** makes for a truly irresistible meal. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a dinner party, and it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the recipe with additional proteins, vegetables, or even different cheeses.
Baked penne is also a great dish for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the fridge and reheats wonderfully. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, so there’s minimal cleanup involved!
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this **Italian-Inspired Baked Penne** recipe is easy to make and yields a flavorful, comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
### Conclusion
**Italian-Inspired Baked Penne** is the epitome of comforting, delicious Italian cuisine. With its combination of pasta, tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a weeknight meal, this recipe will deliver satisfying and mouthwatering results every time. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for the perfect Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy!
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