Description

Baked Penne Pasta with Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together. With layers of al dente penne, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it hot out of the oven for a warm and inviting meal that satisfies both heart and palate.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in marinara sauce.
In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added protein, mix in cooked chicken or sausage. Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F until warmed through.