This Baked Penne Pasta is an easy, hearty dish with tender penne pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and lots of melted cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that everyone will love!
Author:Beth
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Ingredients
Scale
12 ozpenne pasta
1 tablespoonolive oil
1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
½onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
1 teaspoonItalian seasoning
½ teaspoonsalt
½ teaspoonblack pepper
¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes (optional)
1 cupricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
1 ½ cupsshredded mozzarella cheese
½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoonfresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente, according to package directions.
Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned. Drain excess fat.