macaroni penne recipe

Macaroni Penne Recipe: Delicious Pasta Dish

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As the sun sets, a warm pasta dish is perfect for family time. The macaroni penne recipe is a flavor-packed masterpiece. It’s great for any day, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

Penne pasta is the ideal base for a creamy sauce, tender protein, and melted cheese. This dish is comforting and impressive. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Table of contents

Introducing a Comforting Penne Pasta Bake

Penne pasta bake is a top pick for family meals. It mixes pasta, ground beef, and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for big gatherings or cozy weeknights.

The Perfect Family-Friendly Meal

This dish is loved by all for its tasty mix of ingredients. It uses cottage cheese and sour cream for a creamy sauce. Mozzarella cheese is added in layers for extra flavor.

Each serving has 343 calories, 21 grams of protein, and 22 grams of carbs. It’s both filling and nutritious, making it a hit with everyone.

“This penne pasta bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. The combination of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese creates a true crowd-pleasing classic.”

To make this tasty dish, preheat your oven to 375°F. It takes about 40 minutes to cook. Once done, it serves eight, so everyone gets a share.

Ingredients for Penne Pasta Bake

To make this tasty penne pasta bake, you’ll need a few key ingredients. You’ll need penne pasta, ground beef, onion, marinara sauce, sour cream, and a mix of cheeses. These include provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan.

Begin with 16 ounces of dried penne pasta. It’s the base for this comforting dish. For savory flavor, use 1 pound of lean ground beef. Add diced onion for a rich aroma, and a big 48 ounces of marinara sauce.

For creaminess, add 16 ounces of cream cheese and 5 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream to the sauce. Finish with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan.

Herbs and seasonings like 2 tablespoons of dried Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons of fresh minced basil, 2 teaspoons of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper enhance the flavors. They make this dish truly irresistible.

With these ingredients, you can make a penne pasta bake that will satisfy everyone. It’s a comforting and satisfying pasta dish perfect for any time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this tasty penne pasta bake is easy. It just takes a few simple steps. Let’s go through each step to make this comforting dish.

Cooking the Pasta

First, cook the penne pasta as the package says. It should be al dente. Drain it and set it aside for the meat sauce.

Making the Meaty Sauce

In a big skillet, cook the ground beef with onions until browned. Then, add marinara sauce and sour cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes to mix the flavors.

Assembling the Casserole

Heat your oven to the right temperature. In a big baking dish, put the cooked pasta and meat sauce. Add provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Baking to Perfection

Put the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. Watch it closely to avoid overcooking. Let it cool a bit before serving this delicious meal.

macaroni penne recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

This macaroni penne recipe is a classic that everyone loves. It has a meaty, creamy sauce and melted cheese. It’s perfect for casual gatherings and weeknight dinners.

It’s easy to make, needing just 15 minutes of hands-on time and 30 minutes in the oven. You can use frozen meatballs and jarred marinara sauce to make it quicker. Adding fresh linguine and kale makes it even better.

This macaroni penne recipe is great for any dinner. It has a rich sauce, tender pasta, and a cheesy topping. It’s a favorite that will be in your dinner plans often.

“This macaroni penne recipe is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors is absolutely delicious!”

Macaroni penne recipe

Versatile Penne Pasta Dishes

Penne pasta is incredibly versatile. It lets you make a wide range of delicious dishes. From classic Italian recipes to international flavors, it’s perfect for many culinary ideas.

Italian Inspirations

Penne pasta is great in classic Italian dishes like penne alla vodka and pesto penne. Its small, tubular shape is ideal for soaking up sauces. It brings out the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.

Whether you want a creamy, tomato-based dish or a fresh, herbal pesto, penne pasta is a hit. It offers a satisfying and authentically Italian taste.

International Flavors

  • Spice up your penne with a Cajun chicken penne recipe. It has a bold, aromatic sauce and tender chicken.
  • Try a Greek-style pastitsio for a Mediterranean twist. Penne pasta is layered with ground lamb, béchamel sauce, and feta cheese.
  • For a global twist, make a Thai peanut penne dish. It combines the nutty flavors of peanut sauce with penne pasta’s texture.

Penne pasta’s versatility lets you explore a world of culinary possibilities. From classic Italian comfort foods to international flavors, it’s a canvas for creativity. Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen with penne pasta.

Tips for Perfect Penne Pasta

Getting the perfect penne pasta dish is all about mastering a few key techniques. As a pasta enthusiast, I’ve learned that the secret to flawless penne lies in cooking the pasta to the ideal al dente texture. Seasoning the water properly and avoiding overcooking are also important.

Cook to Al Dente Perfection

The first step to delicious penne is ensuring the pasta is cooked to an al dente consistency. Al dente pasta has a pleasant chew and firm bite, unlike mushy, overcooked pasta. To achieve this, set a timer and taste the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time on the package. Penne should have a slight firmness in the center when bitten.

Season the Cooking Water

Salting the pasta water is key for boosting the flavor of your penne. According to former Del Posto executive chef Mark Ladner, “Use about one tablespoon of salt per quart of water when salting pasta water.” This helps the pasta absorb the seasoning as it cooks.

Avoid Overcooking

Don’t overcook your penne, as it will continue to soften as it bakes in the casserole. A survey by Noodles & Company found that nearly 60 percent of Americans eat pasta or noodles at least once a week. So, getting the cooking time right is key for the perfect texture.

how to cook penne pasta

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating penne pasta dishes that are cooked to perfection, every time. With the right techniques, you can enjoy the delicious, al dente texture that makes penne a pasta lover’s delight.

Delicious Penne Pasta Leftovers

One of the best things about a delectable penne pasta bake is that it makes excellent leftovers. You can enjoy the casserole reheated or serve it chilled as a refreshing penne pasta salad. The flavors only get better over time. The robust penne pasta holds up well to reheating.

Adding fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, or a drizzle of fragrant pesto can transform it into a tasty lunch or side dish. Leftover penne pasta can be repurposed in countless ways. From classic Parmesan Pasta and creamy Baked Mac and Cheese to hearty Chicken Noodle Casserole and zesty Pizza Pasta Casserole, the options are endless.

By planning ahead and freezing surplus pasta, you can save time and money. Always having a flavorful meal ready to go is a great advantage. The beauty of penne pasta leftovers lies in their versatility. Dishes like Pasta Frittata, Greek Pasta Salad, and Tuna Pasta Salad showcase how a simple pasta base can be transformed into a delightful new creation.

DishPrep TimeCook TimeCaloriesCarbsProteinFat
Parmesan Pasta5 min3 min34339.9g27.4g8.8g
Baked Mac and Cheese10 min25 min49563.5g15.0g15.3g
Chicken Noodle Casserole15 min45 min42042g33g14g
Pizza Pasta Casserole20 min30 min55055g28g22g

With the right techniques and a little creativity, penne pasta leftovers can be transformed into a variety of delicious and cost-effective meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a refreshing pasta salad, the possibilities are endless when it comes to repurposing your leftover penne pasta.

Creamy Penne Pasta Variations

There’s more to penne pasta than just the classic bake. Try a vegetarian option with a mushroom or spinach sauce. Mix cheeses like fontina and parmesan for a creamy, melty sauce.

Vegetarian Options

For a meatless meal, add roasted vegetables to your penne pasta. Mix cooked penne with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Top it with a creamy sauce for a tasty dish.

For a lighter option, try a creamy penne pasta with spinach. The green spinach and creamy sauce make for a healthy, satisfying meal.

DishIngredientsPrep TimeTotal TimeServings
Creamy Mushroom Penne PastaPenne pasta, mushrooms, garlic, cream, parmesan10 minutes30 minutes5
Spinach and Penne Pasta BakePenne pasta, spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan15 minutes45 minutes4

Whether you want a rich mushroom sauce or a veggie-packed dish, penne pasta offers many meatless options.

Baked Penne Pasta Casserole Ideas

There are many ways to make a delicious baked penne pasta casserole. Try using ground turkey or Italian sausage for protein. Add spinach, zucchini, or roasted peppers for extra flavor. You can make your casserole unique and tasty.

Using chicken thighs can make your casserole more flavorful. Mix diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth for the sauce. Bake it covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then without the cover for 15 to 20 minutes.

The baked penne pasta casserole can be stored for up to four days in the fridge or three months in the freezer. Reheat it in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warm.

Here are some ideas to make your casserole even better:

  • Try different pasta shapes like ziti or rigatoni
  • Use provolone cheese instead of mozzarella
  • Add ground beef or Italian sausage for more flavor
  • Include spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini

Make the penne pasta bake ahead of time for a convenient meal. With so many options, you can create endless delicious pasta casserole recipes.

IngredientQuantity
Penne Pasta16 oz
Ground Beef1 lb
Onion, diced1 cup
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Tomato Sauce24 oz
Mozzarella Cheese, shredded2 cups
Parmesan Cheese, grated1/2 cup

“The baked penne pasta casserole is a family-favorite that never disappoints. The combination of the savory meat sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.”

Conclusion

This macaroni penne recipe is a delightful and comforting pasta dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The creamy, meaty sauce and layers of melted cheese make it a true family favorite.

With its versatility and easy-to-follow instructions, this penne pasta bake is a must-try. It’s great for anyone who loves pasta and comfort food.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian-inspired meal or international flavors, this recipe has something for you. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So why not give it a try and experience the delicious comfort of this penne pasta bake for yourself?

This macaroni penne recipe is quick to prepare and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s a practical and convenient choice for busy families or those who appreciate having a tasty meal on hand. Embrace the warmth and satisfaction of this comforting pasta dish, and enjoy the flavors that will have your taste buds craving more.

FAQ

What is a macaroni penne recipe?

A macaroni penne recipe is a classic comfort food. It features penne pasta in a creamy, meaty sauce. The dish is topped with melted cheese.

What are the key ingredients for this penne pasta bake?

The main ingredients are penne pasta, ground beef, and onion. You’ll also need marinara sauce, sour cream, and a mix of cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, and parmesan.

How do you make this penne pasta bake?

First, cook the pasta. Then, brown the ground beef with onion. Next, mix in marinara sauce and sour cream to make the meat sauce.Layer the pasta and sauce in a baking dish. Top it with a cheese blend. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Why is this macaroni penne recipe a crowd-pleasing classic?

This recipe is loved because of its meaty, creamy sauce and gooey cheese. It’s a comforting dish perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

How versatile is penne pasta?

Penne pasta is very versatile. You can make a wide range of dishes, from classic Italian recipes to international flavors.

What are some tips for cooking penne pasta perfectly?

To cook penne pasta perfectly, cook it until it’s al dente. Salt the pasta cooking water. Avoid overcooking, as it will soften more when baked.

How can you use penne pasta leftovers?

Penne pasta bake is great for leftovers. You can turn it into a tasty lunch or side dish. Just add fresh herbs, vegetables, or a drizzle of pesto.

What are some creative variations for creamy penne pasta dishes?

For a vegetarian option, try a creamy mushroom or spinach sauce. You can also mix different cheeses or add roasted vegetables for a meatless meal.

What are some ideas for baked penne pasta casseroles?

You can try different proteins like ground turkey or Italian sausage. Add various vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted peppers. This creates unique and satisfying baked penne pasta casseroles.

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