Name: Easy Baked Penne Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12-16 ounce penne pasta (your favorite brand); 24 ounce pasta sauce (choose a flavor you love, like marinara or roasted garlic); 8 ounce cottage cheese (low fat is perfectly fine); 8 ounce sour cream (low fat works here as well); 5 garlic (cloves, pressed for maximum flavor); 4 cups shredded mozzarella (divided for layering and topping)

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a hearty serving of Easy Baked Penne Pasta. This recipe combines the delightful flavors of pasta, cheese, and sauce in a way that is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With layers of creamy cottage cheese, tangy sour cream, and a generous amount of mozzarella, every bite is a cheesy delight. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious meal!

The Upside of Easy Baked Penne Pasta

Easy Baked Penne Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet straightforward. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it can be customized with your choice of pasta sauce, and you can even sneak in some veggies for a nutritional boost. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Gather

1 (12-16 ounce) box of penne pasta – Your favorite brand will do!
1 (24 ounce) jar of pasta sauce – Choose a flavor you love, like marinara or roasted garlic.
8 ounces of cottage cheese – Low fat is perfectly fine.
8 ounces of sour cream – Low fat works here as well.
5 cloves of garlic – Pressed for maximum flavor.
4 cups of shredded mozzarella – Divided for layering and topping.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Large pot – For boiling the pasta.
9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for baking and serving.
Mixing bowl – For combining the creamy ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing and serving.
Aluminum foil – To cover the dish while baking.

Step-by-Step: Easy Baked Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, pressed garlic, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

In your baking dish, spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. Next, layer half of the cooked penne over the sauce. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by another layer of pasta sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining pasta sauce on top.

Step 4: Add the Final Touch

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dish. This will create a beautifully cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake It!

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Pasta: Swap out penne for rigatoni or ziti for a different shape.
Cottage Cheese: Ricotta can be used for a creamier texture.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt makes a healthy alternative.
Pasta Sauce: Try pesto or Alfredo for a unique twist.

Method to the Madness

The method for this Easy Baked Penne Pasta is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by boiling the pasta until just tender; overcooking it can lead to mushy results after baking. The creamy cheese mixture adds richness and flavor, while the layers of sauce keep the pasta moist. Baking with foil traps steam and helps the dish cook evenly, while removing the foil at the end allows the cheese to brown beautifully.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover Easy Baked Penne Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil, until heated through. You can add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist while reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I make Easy Baked Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Is there a way to make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! You can add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I freeze Easy Baked Penne Pasta?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with Easy Baked Penne Pasta?

This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cook This Next

Bring It Home

With its creamy texture and cheesy topping, this Easy Baked Penne Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your table. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies your cravings but also offers the flexibility to adapt to your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to indulge in a delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of your Easy Baked Penne Pasta!

Print Recipe Save it for later