Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole 2023

Ingredients:

1 box cooked penne pasta
1 jar marinara sauce
1 bag shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Additions:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and the entire jar of marinara sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Optional Seasonings:
- If you’re using optional additions, sprinkle dried oregano and garlic powder over the pasta mixture. Add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheese Layer:
- Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pasta mixture. Reserve some cheese for topping.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Transfer the sauced pasta and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Top with More Cheese:
- Sprinkle the reserved shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, ensuring an even layer.
Cover and Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and prevent excessive browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Uncover and Bake (Optional):
- If you prefer a golden-brown crust on top, remove the foil after 20 minutes and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, garnish the baked penne pasta with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Let it Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps set the cheese and meld the flavors together.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Scoop out generous servings of the baked penne pasta, and enjoy the simplicity of this delicious and comforting dish with friends!

This easy baked penne pasta casserole is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or add-ins for added flair!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole even more delightful:

1. Fresh Herbs:

Add a handful of fresh basil or parsley just before serving. The freshness will add a pop of color and flavor.

2. Garlic Infusion:

Sauté minced garlic in a bit of olive oil and mix it with the pasta before adding the sauce. This adds a subtle garlic flavor to the dish.

3. Season the Pasta:

Season the cooked penne pasta with salt and a drizzle of olive oil before combining it with the marinara sauce. This enhances the overall flavor.

4. Mix in Ricotta:

For added creaminess, mix in a cup of ricotta cheese with the marinara sauce before combining it with the pasta.

5. Layer with Spinach:

Add a layer of fresh spinach leaves between the pasta and sauce. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens and adds a lovely texture.

6. Spice it Up:

If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the pasta or mix them into the sauce for a subtle kick.

7. Custom Cheese Blend:

Experiment with different cheese blends. Add some shredded Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra complexity.

8. Roasted Vegetables:

Roast some cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini before adding them to the pasta for a burst of roasted flavor.

9. Breadcrumb Topping:

Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top before baking for a crunchy, golden topping.

10. Quality Marinara Sauce: – Use a high-quality marinara sauce or consider making your own with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and garlic. It can significantly elevate the flavor.

11. Customize with Proteins: – Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or grilled chicken pieces for a protein-packed version.

12. Bake in Individual Servings: – Portion the pasta into individual ramekins before baking for a charming presentation. It’s great for serving at events.

13. Let it Rest: – Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut and serve.

14. Freshly Grated Cheese: – Grate your mozzarella and Parmesan cheese fresh for a superior melt and flavor.

15. Serve with a Side Salad: – Accompany the casserole with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.

Feel free to mix and match these tips based on your preferences, and enjoy making your Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole even more delightful!

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers related to the Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole:

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli. Choose a shape that holds sauce well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake it when needed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

3. Can I freeze the baked casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of marinara sauce?

Certainly! You can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to cook them down with garlic, herbs, and seasoning to create a sauce-like consistency.

5. How can I prevent the pasta from drying out during baking?

Ensure the pasta is well-coated with sauce before baking, and cover the casserole with foil while baking to trap moisture.

6. Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken can be great additions.

7. What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or a vegetable medley pairs well with this pasta casserole.

8. Can I use multiple cheese varieties?

Yes, you can create a cheese blend by combining mozzarella, Parmesan, and other Italian cheeses for added flavor.

9. How can I make the top layer of cheese extra gooey?

Use freshly grated mozzarella and spread it evenly across the top. It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? – Absolutely! Simply omit any meat additions and consider adding more veggies or even plant-based protein alternatives.

11. Can I use gluten-free pasta? – Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

12. Can I customize the seasonings in the marinara sauce? – Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the marinara sauce for a personalized touch.

13. How do I reheat leftovers? – Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

14. What’s the best way to store leftovers? – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

15. Can I make this dish in a different size baking dish? – Yes, you can adjust the recipe to fit different-sized baking dishes. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary.

Feel free to use and adapt these answers based on your preferences and any modifications you make to the recipe!

Achieving the perfect Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole involves attention to detail and a few secrets to elevate the flavors. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection:

1. Quality Ingredients:

Use high-quality pasta, marinara sauce, and cheeses for the best flavor. Fresh and premium ingredients make a noticeable difference.

2. Properly Season the Pasta:

Season the cooked penne pasta with salt and a drizzle of olive oil before combining it with the sauce. This ensures every component is well-seasoned.

3. Flavorful Marinara Sauce:

Choose a marinara sauce with robust flavor or consider making your own with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano for a homemade touch.

4. Cheese Mixture:

Experiment with a cheese blend, combining mozzarella, Parmesan, and other Italian cheeses. This adds complexity to the dish.

5. Layering Technique:

Layering is key to even flavor distribution. Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and cheese for consistent taste throughout.

6. Customize Seasonings:

Customize the seasonings to your taste. Add dried oregano, basil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor profile.

7. Extra Fresh Herbs:

Add a handful of fresh basil or parsley just before serving. The burst of freshness elevates the entire dish.

8. Optimal Baking Time:

Monitor the baking time closely. The casserole should be bubbly, and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden.

9. Let it Rest:

Allow the baked penne pasta casserole to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps set the cheese and allows the flavors to meld.

10. Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): – For added texture, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top before baking. This creates a crunchy, golden topping.

11. Sautéed Garlic: – Infuse the pasta with the flavor of sautéed garlic. Cook minced garlic in olive oil and toss it with the pasta before adding the sauce.

12. Creamy Addition: – Mix in a cup of ricotta cheese with the marinara sauce before combining it with the pasta for extra creaminess.

13. Test for Doneness: – Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before baking. Overcooked pasta can result in a mushy casserole.

14. Experiment with Add-Ins: – Customize the casserole with your favorite add-ins like roasted vegetables, Italian sausage, or even spinach for additional flavors and textures.

15. Garnish Creatively: – Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or an additional dash of grated Parmesan for a finishing touch.

Remember, cooking is an art, and these secrets can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. Enjoy the process of creating the perfect Easy Baked Penne Pasta Casserole!