The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

If you’re a fan of cheesy, creamy pasta dishes that warm you from the inside out, then The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta is about to become your new go-to recipe. This dish combines the best elements of both pasta bake and creamy sauce to deliver a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for a cozy dinner, or looking to impress guests, this pasta dish hits all the right notes.

With a rich, velvety cream sauce, tender penne pasta, and a crispy, golden cheese topping, this baked pasta is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of the process and share tips for making this dish even better. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

1. A Creamy, Dreamy Sauce

What sets this baked penne apart is its creamy, luscious sauce. Made with a combination of heavy cream, milk, and plenty of cheese, the sauce coats every piece of pasta, making each bite indulgent and satisfying. The creaminess is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of seasoning, so the dish is rich without feeling overwhelming.

2. Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

This recipe makes a generous portion, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance and can be popped in the oven just before serving. Everyone loves a baked pasta dish that’s both hearty and comforting—this one fits the bill!

3. Crispy Cheese Topping

The crowning glory of any baked pasta dish is the crispy, golden cheese topping. As it bakes in the oven, the cheese becomes perfectly bubbly and slightly browned, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy interior. It’s the kind of crispy cheese crust that everyone fights for!

4. Versatile and Customizable

This baked penne pasta recipe is incredibly versatile. You can add protein, vegetables, or even swap out ingredients to suit your tastes. Want to add some cooked chicken, sausage, or roasted vegetables? Go ahead! The creamy sauce is a great base for all kinds of variations.

Ingredients for The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta

This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, with a few key items to make the sauce luxuriously creamy. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or any short pasta like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

For the Creamy Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for creaminess and meltiness)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional, for a hint of herbal flavor)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for added depth)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for the crispy topping)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for crunch, optional)

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