Cheesy Baked Penne Recipe

There is something wonderfully comforting about a warm dish of Cheesy Baked Penne that feels like a big, delicious hug. This baked pasta combines perfectly cooked penne with a rich tomato sauce, generous layers of gooey mozzarella, and a golden parmesan crust. It’s simple, yet so incredibly satisfying—a meal that brings together great textures and vibrant flavors, perfect for any night you crave something both cozy and indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, Cheesy Baked Penne always hits the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Cheesy Baked Penne plays a key role in creating that wonderfully balanced dish—simple pantry staples come together to make magic happen, from the al dente pasta to the melty cheeses that crown the bake.

• 300 g penne: The perfect pasta shape for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
• 2 cups tomato sauce: Choose a flavorful, well-seasoned sauce to bring brightness and moisture.
• 1 cup mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey texture.
• 1/2 cup parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and a nice golden crust when baked.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil into the mix.
• Salt + pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the penne until it’s just al dente. This ensures your pasta holds its structure and doesn’t get mushy once baked. Drain it well to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.

Step 2: Mix Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained penne with the tomato sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where you build the flavor foundation, so give everything a good stir to coat each piece of pasta evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the saucy pasta into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. Then, generously sprinkle the mozzarella all over the top, followed by the parmesan evenly bordering the dish to ensure a golden crust forms.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dish for about 25 minutes. The cheese will melt and bubble up, and the top will turn that perfect golden brown, signaling it’s ready to come out of the oven and onto your table.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Penne

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley scatter a pop of green and a fresh aroma over the warm, cheesy dish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely little kick if you enjoy a bit of spice, and a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheesy Baked Penne with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes for a perfect companion, great for scooping every last bit of melted cheese and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small, oven-safe ramekins for a personal touch, or layer in a clear baking dish so guests can admire all those cheesy layers. Top with extra parmesan or even some toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place your leftover Cheesy Baked Penne in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to three days, making it a perfect meal to enjoy later without losing any of its cheesy goodness.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly with foil or place it in a freezer-safe container to preserve freshness. When properly stored, you can keep it frozen for up to 2 months without compromising flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your portion into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the tender pasta and crispy cheese topping much better than the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully because of how it holds sauce, rigatoni, ziti, or even shells would be great alternatives depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make Cheesy Baked Penne vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian if your tomato sauce doesn’t contain meat. Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms to bulk it up even more.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular penne for a gluten-free pasta variety. Just be sure not to overcook it so it won’t get mushy during baking.

What cheese works best alongside mozzarella and parmesan?

You can experiment with provolone or fontina for deeper flavors, but mozzarella and parmesan together give you that perfect balance of meltiness and golden crust.

Can I prepare this dish vegan style?

To make a vegan Cheesy Baked Penne, substitute the cheeses for vegan-friendly cheese alternatives and confirm that your tomato sauce is free from animal products. Nutritional yeast can also lend a cheesy flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Penne is one of those dishes that hits home every time—a wonderful mix of hearty pasta, tangy tomato sauce, and irresistibly melted cheese that never fails to delight. It’s so easy to make, versatile, and utterly comforting, making it a perfect recipe to add to your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try and watch how quickly this classic becomes a favorite in your kitchen as it has in mine!