There’s something absolutely magical about a bubbling, cheesy pasta bake emerging golden and irresistible from the oven, and this Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion is just that. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm embrace: robust Italian sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and a blanket of gooey cheese, baked together with tender penne for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a potluck, or just want a weeknight meal that doubles as leftovers, this recipe delivers hearty flavor and a sense of celebration every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this dish is how these simple, familiar ingredients come together to create something unforgettable. Each one builds layers of flavor, luscious texture, and bubbly, golden color—resulting in a classic you’ll crave again and again.
- Penne Pasta: The ideal shape to capture every bit of saucy goodness in every bite.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage to perfection.
- Italian Sausage (mild or spicy): Provides hearty flavor and satisfying protein—go spicy if you crave a little kick!
- Yellow Onion: Fundamental for a savory, aromatic base in the sauce.
- Garlic: A punch of classic, savory flavor that simply can’t be skipped.
- Dried Oregano: Adds that “classic Italian” warmth in every forkful.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle heat throughout their dish.
- Marinara Sauce: This is the soul of the bake—choose a quality jar for maximum flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Stirred into the sauce for irresistible richness and silkiness.
- Fresh Basil (or dried): A burst of freshness! If you have it, use fresh for bright, herbal notes.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into that quintessential stretchy, gooey layer kids and adults adore.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings savory depth and helps create a golden, flavorful crust.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): For that final touch of color and freshness when serving.
How to Make Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
First things first: bring a big pot of salted water to a lively boil and cook your penne just until al dente—about 1–2 minutes shy of the package instructions. The pasta will soften further in the oven, so keeping it slightly firm at this stage ensures you don’t end up with a mushy bake. After draining, set the pasta aside while you tackle the savory sauce.
Step 2: Sizzle the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the sausage (casings removed). Break up any big chunks with a spoon and cook, stirring often, until the meat is browned and just cooked through. The sausage is the flavor foundation—don’t rush this step, as those little crispy bits add big flavor to the Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion.
Step 3: Build Flavor with Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned, stir in the chopped onion. Sauté for three to four minutes until it softens and turns translucent, infusing the sausage with subtle sweetness. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes; cook just half a minute to release their fragrances without burning. Your kitchen will already smell incredible!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, then add the heavy cream and basil. Give everything a good stir and let the mixture simmer for about five minutes. The cream mellows the tomato sharpness, making the sauce velvety and luscious. Season well with salt and black pepper to taste; this step ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Assemble the Pasta Bake
Add your cooked pasta straight into the skillet with the saucy sausage and fold gently to coat every penne piece. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Repeat with the rest of the pasta and finish with the remaining cheese. You’re officially on your way to pasta perfection!
Step 6: Bake to Bubbling Bliss
Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and has developed those irresistible golden brown edges. Let your masterpiece rest for about five minutes before serving—this gives the cheese time to set and makes for easier serving.
How to Serve Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion
Garnishes
Brighten up your Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion with a generous shower of freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it brings a lovely, fresh finish that pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy layers. For an extra cheesy flourish, offer extra Parmesan at the table for sprinkling.
Side Dishes
This hearty bake is a meal in itself, but pairing it with simple sides elevates the whole spread. Think a big green salad tossed with vinaigrette, some roasted broccoli or asparagus, or classic garlic bread (for those who just can’t resist mopping up the sauce). The fresh crunch of veggies and a warm, crusty side make dinner a real event.
Creative Ways to Present
While a big baking dish is classic, you can also portion the Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion into individual ramekins for a special touch at dinner parties. Or, scoop it into small bowls for game day or potlucks—no utensils required if you’re feeling casual! For fun family style, place the bubbling pan right in the center of the table and let everyone dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it the ultimate weeknight lifesaver for quick lunches or another no-fuss dinner.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap the dish tightly with two layers of foil (or a layer of plastic wrap and foil for maximum freshness) and freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed—you won’t believe you didn’t just whip it up fresh!
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers covered in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until steaming throughout. If you want to bring back the cheesy top’s golden crunch, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan before reheating in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce and cheese, you can easily substitute with rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini for a fun twist. Just be sure to cook whatever shape you use to al dente, as all will continue to soften in the oven.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion, swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage, crumbled tempeh, or even sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. The rest of the recipe stays the same and will be just as hearty and delicious.
Can I prep this ahead for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire pasta bake up to a day ahead. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold. That way, all you have to do is pop it in the oven and enjoy time with your guests.
What’s the best way to add more veggies?
Sauté chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even shredded carrots with the onions for an easy veggie boost. These additions blend beautifully with the sauce, add nutrients, and bring extra color and texture to your Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion.
Can I use store-bought sauce, or should I make my own?
A good-quality store-bought marinara sauce is perfect for weeknight ease, but if you have the time and desire, homemade sauce takes it to another level. Either way, the added cream and herbs in this recipe ensure your Baked Penne comes out flavorful every single time.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for that perfect, crowd-pleasing dish to add to your rotation, give this Baked Penne: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Every Occasion a try. It’s delightfully simple, endlessly customizable, and sure to bring everyone running to the table. Go ahead—bake, share, and make some memories around this irresistible classic!
