Baked Penne (quick recipe)

Baked Penne – a quick and delicious recipe

Who doesn't love a baked pasta dish that brings comfort and joy to the table with every bite? Baked penne is a versatile meal, perfect for a quick dinner or special occasions. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, and it will surely become a family favorite. Let's start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 250 g penne
- 5 fresh tomatoes or a jar of tomato sauce
- 250 g sour cream
- 100 g ham, salami, or bacon (or a combination)
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove of garlic (optional)
- Fresh or dried basil, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
- Champignon mushrooms (optional)

Recipe history

Baked penne is a perfect example of comfort food, with deep roots in culinary tradition. These pasta shapes have long been loved for their texture and ability to hold sauces and flavors. Over time, they have become a popular dish in households, often customized with available ingredients. It is a recipe that combines simplicity with flavor, making it easily adaptable to each consumer's taste.

Recipe preparation

Step 1: Boiling the penne

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is essential as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Preparing the tomato sauce

If using fresh tomatoes, peel and chop them finely. In a pan, add a bit of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. If you want an extra flavor boost, add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Add the chopped tomatoes or store-bought tomato sauce, stir, and let it simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and basil to taste.

Step 3: Assembling the dish

In a baking dish, add the drained penne. Pour the sour cream over the pasta and mix well. If you want a more intense flavor, you can incorporate a minced clove of garlic. Add the prepared tomato sauce, diced ham, salami, or bacon, and, if desired, sliced champignon mushrooms. Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the dish to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and has formed a nice crust.

Step 5: Serving

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a fresh green salad to add a fresh contrast. A bottle of dry white wine can also perfectly complement the meal.

Useful tips

- If you want a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, to change the flavor of the dish.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; they should remain juicy and flavorful.

Nutritional benefits

Baked penne is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy throughout the day. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, while sour cream offers a dose of calcium and protein. Adding vegetables and fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also brings additional nutritional benefits.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta will add extra fiber and nutrients.

2. How long can I store leftovers?
Baked penne can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain the crispy texture.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
Experiment with olives, bell peppers, or even grilled vegetables. The imagination is the limit!

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like spicy food, add chili flakes to the tomato sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper on top of the dish before baking.

5. Can I prepare this dish a day in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything and keep it in the fridge, then bake it before serving.

We hope this baked penne recipe brings you much joy in the kitchen! Cooking is an art, and each dish is an opportunity to experiment and add a personal touch. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family and create delicious memories together! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: a pack of penne, a few slices of ham/salami/bacon, 250 grams of sour cream, the flesh of 5 tomatoes/store-bought tomato sauce, basil, onion, chicken, pepper, cheese, olives (optional), champignon mushrooms (optional)