Inspired by Italy : Baked Penne Recipe

Inspired by Italy : Baked Penne Recipe

Transport your taste buds straight to Italy with this savory Baked Penne recipe, inspired by the hearty and comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. This dish is a perfect combination of tender pasta, robust tomato and beef sauce, and rich, creamy cheese. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this baked penne will steal the show. It’s easy to prepare, utterly delicious, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

1. Bursting with Flavor: Layers of al dente pasta, seasoned minced beef, and creamy cheese blend harmoniously.
2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef, vitamins from the tomatoes, and calcium from the cheese.
3. Versatile and Customizable: Add veggies, switch up the protein, or tweak the seasoning to make it your own.
4. Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for leftovers, as the flavors deepen with time.

Ingredients for Baked Penne

Pasta and Sauce:

• 300g penne rigate pasta
• 600g minced beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300g canned chopped tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)

Cheese Sauce:

• 40g butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 500ml whole milk
• 150g Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Topping:

• 150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta

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

2. Cook the Beef Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
• Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne with the beef sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
• Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
• Spread half of the cheese sauce over the pasta, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella.
• Layer the remaining pasta, then top with the rest of the cheese sauce and mozzarella.

5. Bake

• Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cheeses and fresh herbs for an authentic Italian taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
• Customize the Protein: Substitute minced beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian alternative like lentils.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

1. Rich in Protein: Minced beef and cheese provide muscle-building protein.
2. Carbohydrate Energy: Pasta is a great source of complex carbs for sustained energy.
3. Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes and fresh herbs add a boost of antioxidants and vitamins.
4. Calcium for Bone Health: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella supports strong bones.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Bread Pairing: Serve with warm garlic bread or a baguette for dipping into the sauce.
• Beverage: Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Chianti for a true Italian dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (360°F) for 15–20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Penne

This recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting experience. The creamy cheese sauce, robust beef and tomato filling, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a dish that’s satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, this baked penne is the ultimate comfort food that keeps you coming back for more.

Buon appetito! 🌟