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How to Make The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, making sure it’s al dente (slightly firm). Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, start on the creamy sauce. In a large saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and keep stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add dried basil or onion powder if desired.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked penne pasta to the pan with the creamy sauce. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated in the rich sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The pasta should be generously coated, but not swimming in sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil. Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful crispy texture to the finished dish.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want a more pronounced crispy top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pasta is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Penne Pasta
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: To achieve that rich, creamy texture, opt for full-fat heavy cream and whole milk. The extra fat gives the sauce its luxurious feel.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the pasta. Simply stir it in with the pasta before baking, or layer it between the pasta and sauce.
- Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the day before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or Gruyère for different flavors and textures.
- Boost the Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can be added to the sauce or used as a garnish for added freshness and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of The Ultimate Creamy Baked Penne Pasta lies in its simplicity and balance. The creamy sauce is rich and indulgent, but it’s never too heavy, thanks to the addition of just the right amount of milk and cream. The cheeses melt beautifully into the sauce, while the crispy, golden topping adds a satisfying crunch. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is the epitome of comfort food—filling, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for guests, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit. It’s customizable, easy to make, and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s face. Plus, there’s something about baked pasta that makes it even more delicious the next day, so leftovers (if there are any!) are always a treat.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Penne Pasta is a showstopper that’s both comforting and indulgent. With its velvety cheese sauce, perfectly baked pasta, and crispy topping, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this pasta bake is a winner every time.
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate creamy baked pasta experience—you won’t regret it! 🍝🧀
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