Italian-Inspired Baked Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage or ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce, stirring to coat the pasta. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom, then add half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Add the remaining pasta and top with the remaining sauce. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the baked penne cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm.

Conclusion

This Italian-Inspired Baked Penne is bursting with hearty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with cheesy, savory goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!