EASY PASTA DISH / BEST HOME MADE BAKED PENNE RECIPE / CHERYLS HOME COOKING

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: provolone cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while still melting well.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner while ground pork is often less expensive.

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese provides similar texture with lower fat.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cook 16 oz of penne noodles according to the directions on the box, cooking them a little al dente as they will bake further in the oven.

In a bowl, combine the cooked penne noodles with homemade sauce and 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing well to coat the noodles.

Add more sauce if desired to keep the noodles covered and prevent drying out.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.

Season with a little salt and pepper.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Place in the preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes, keeping an eye on it as ovens may vary.

After 30 minutes, remove from oven and check for doneness.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens