3-Cheese Baked Penne

Introduction

Baked pasta dishes are the ultimate comfort food, and this 3-Cheese Baked Penne recipe is no exception. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a perfect family meal that brings together the best of Italian-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this baked penne will quickly become a favorite.

The History

Penne pasta has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in Campania, where its cylindrical shape and ridges were designed to hold sauces beautifully. The concept of baked pasta dishes like this one became popular in America through Italian immigrants, especially in regions like New York and New Jersey. Over time, traditional lasagna evolved into other forms such as baked ziti, rigatoni, and penne — all featuring layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Penne Pasta: The star of the dish — ridged penne holds onto sauce and cheese perfectly.
• Three Cheeses: A trio of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers a rich, creamy texture and deep umami flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce that ties everything together with tangy sweetness.
• Eggs: Used to bind the ricotta mixture so it holds together when scooped.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of freshness and aroma to balance the richness.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing aromatics and adding depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Lends savory complexity to the marinara base.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer of the dish.
• Optional Add-ins: Ground beef, Italian sausage, spinach, or mushrooms can be added for extra heartiness.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Cook the Penne: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the penne until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a pinch of salt and pepper, beaten egg, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan. Mix well until smooth.
3. Make the Marinara: In a saucepan, heat olive oil, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add marinara sauce. Simmer for 10–15 minutes; season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil if desired.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss cooked penne with half the marinara sauce. Then stir in the ricotta mixture evenly.
5. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella slices and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the penne for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Rest and Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan.

Tips

• Don’t overbake — mozzarella can become rubbery if cooked too long.
• Letting the dish rest for 5–10 minutes makes it easier to serve cleanly.
• For extra flavor, toast breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and sprinkle on top before baking.
• If the mixture seems dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water before baking.
• Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and meltability.

Variations and Customizations

• Meat Lovers: Brown ground beef or Italian sausage and mix into the sauce before baking.
• Veggie Version: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute all cheeses with vegan alternatives made from cashews or soy.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
• Cheesy Twist: Add goat cheese or gouda to the ricotta blend for more depth and creaminess.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

This 3-Cheese Baked Penne offers a good source of protein from the eggs, cheese, and optional meat additions. It’s also rich in calcium and phosphorus from the dairy components. However, due to its cheese and pasta content, it is relatively high in saturated fat and carbohydrates. To make it healthier:

• Use part-skim cheeses to reduce fat.
• Opt for whole wheat penne for more fiber and nutrients.
• Increase vegetable content by adding leafy greens or roasted vegetables.
• Control portion sizes and pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta (regular or whole wheat)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• (Optional: 1/2 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, or veggies of choice)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
3. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan, chopped basil, a pinch of salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. In a saucepan, heat olive oil, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add marinara sauce. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add half the marinara sauce to the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Stir in the ricotta mixture until evenly distributed.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread remaining marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle mozzarella and additional Parmesan over the top.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan before serving, if desired.

FAQ

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the baked penne, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe baking dish, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until warmed through.

How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Children love the gooey cheese and familiar pasta shape. You can even let them help mix ingredients or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.

What can I serve with baked penne?

Pair with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements it nicely for adults.