Name: Creamy Baked Penne
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: ½ lb extra-lean ground beef; ½ cup chopped onions; ½ cup green peppers; 1 jar spaghetti sauce (24-oz); 1 tub whipped cream cheese (8-oz); 2 Tbsp milk; 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 3 cups cooked penne pasta

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Creamy Baked Penne. I remember the first time I made it for a gathering of friends, the aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a warm hug. As we sat down together, chatting and laughing, each bite of the creamy, cheesy pasta felt like a cozy embrace. It became a staple at our get-togethers, and I quickly learned that it’s not just about the flavors, but the moments we share around the table. Nothing beats that post-meal satisfaction mixed with the joy of connecting with loved ones. If you’re looking for a dish that embodies warmth and togetherness, then Creamy Baked Penne is the answer.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
10-inch Skillet, Meat Masher Tool, Rotary Cheese Grater, 9-inch Square Baking Dish

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Penne

A Comforting Classic

The first reason we love Creamy Baked Penne is its incredible comfort factor. This dish combines comforting textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for any cozy evening at home. Plus, it evokes fond memories of family dinners and potluck gatherings.

Easy to Make

Another reason it stands out is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Even if you don’t consider yourself a chef, this recipe walks you through each step, ensuring success with every attempt.

Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is also highly customizable. Whether you want to add more veggies or switch up the type of cheese, it allows for creativity. You can make it your own and cater to your taste preferences or whatever you have in the pantry!

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftovers are another perk of Creamy Baked Penne. This dish keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better as they meld together. So, you can enjoy it for lunch the next day or even share it with friends!

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Creamy Baked Penne fits right in. It’s versatile enough to impress guests without any stress, making it a go-to in my recipe repertoire.

A Family Favorite

Lastly, this dish is a family favorite. It brings everyone together at the table, and you can see the smiles on their faces as they dig in. That’s the magic of Creamy Baked Penne—it’s not just food; it’s a shared experience.

Shopping List for Creamy Baked Penne

When preparing Creamy Baked Penne, it’s essential to consider the premium ingredients that make this dish so delicious. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich, creamy texture and balanced flavors that we all love. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ lb extra-lean ground beef or Italian sausage: This is the hearty foundation of our dish, providing protein and flavor.
½ cup chopped onions: These add sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall taste.
½ cup green peppers: Adding a pop of color and a slight crunch, they complement the other ingredients perfectly.
1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: This is the sauce base, bringing all the classic Italian flavors into the mix.
1 (8-oz) tub whipped cream cheese: The star ingredient that delivers the creamy, luscious texture.
2 Tbsp milk: This helps to achieve the perfect consistency in the creamy mixture.
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs ties everything together with its aromatic flavors.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: This melty cheese is essential for that gooey goodness we crave!
3 cups cooked penne pasta: The heart of the dish, providing that comforting carb component.

The Method for Creamy Baked Penne

Making Creamy Baked Penne is a straightforward journey that starts with some prep work. We’ll be combining ingredients, so let’s get everything ready and enjoy the process! Follow these steps closely for the best results.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is a crucial step to ensure that your Creamy Baked Penne bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown finish.
Next, in a bowl, stir together whipped cream cheese, milk, and Italian seasoning until smooth. This creamy mixture will be the heart of our dish, providing that rich texture that everyone loves.
In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage along with chopped onions and green peppers. You’ll want to cook it until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
Once browned, stir in the spaghetti sauce along with ¾ cup of the cream cheese mixture and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and everything is well combined.
Now, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, mixing it lightly to coat the pasta in that delicious sauce. Make sure the pasta is well combined with everything, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. This will be where all the magic happens in the oven. Spread it evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Top the casserole with the remaining cream cheese mixture and sprinkle the last bit of mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a lovely cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.
Finally, bake your Creamy Baked Penne for 20 minutes or until it is heated through and the top is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-browning.

Things Worth Knowing

Using a nonstick skillet can prevent the meat from sticking, making cleanup easier.
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes once it comes out of the oven. This helps the ingredients set, making it easier to serve.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top after baking.
You can adjust the level of seasoning based on your taste preferences, adding more or less Italian seasoning as desired.

Recipe Notes about Creamy Baked Penne

While Creamy Baked Penne is enjoyable as is, there are always ways to enhance your experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked assembled casserole for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Pairing: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal. Garlic bread also complements well.
Feel free to double the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. This dish is always a hit!
Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for your favorite veggies to create a delightful vegetarian version.

Serve This Creamy Baked Penne With

When enjoying Creamy Baked Penne, consider the following serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Side Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread alongside this cheesy dish.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, where everyone can enjoy it together.
Winter Gatherings: It’s especially great during the colder months, offering warmth and comfort.
Storage Tips: Don’t forget to refrigerate leftovers promptly to maintain freshness.
Occasion Ideas: Serve it as a cozy dinner option on a chilly evening or even for meal prep for the week!

FAQ

Yes, you can assemble Creamy Baked Penne ahead of time. Just prepare everything and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly since the dish will be cold when it goes into the oven.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or some warm garlic bread. You could also add steamed vegetables on the side to balance the meal. All these options will enhance your dining experience and bring a nice variety to the table.

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just make sure it’s well-sealed in an airtight container or covered tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake it, just allow some extra time in the oven since it will be coming from the freezer.

While penne is the traditional choice for Creamy Baked Penne, you can use other pasta shapes as well. Rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli would work beautifully. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.

Conclusion

Creamy Baked Penne is truly a delightful dish that brings families together around the table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite for gatherings. I encourage you to try making it yourself and experience the warmth and joy it brings. You won’t regret it!