Easy Baked Penne Pasta
A simple, cheesy baked penne casserole that's quick to assemble and crowd-pleasing.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Large Bowl
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Measuring Cups
- Garlic press
- Spatula or spoon
Ingredients
- 1 box (16 ounce) penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 ounce) pasta sauce any brand or flavor you like
- 8 ounces cottage cheese low-fat optional
- 8 ounces sour cream low-fat optional
- 5 cloves garlic pressed
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
- In a large bowl or in the emptied pasta pot, combine the pasta sauce, cottage cheese, sour cream, and pressed garlic until smooth.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce mixture and stir to coat. Stir in 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake 15–25 minutes, until the casserole is hot throughout and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let sit a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use low-fat cottage cheese and sour cream if desired.
- Cook pasta slightly less than package time for firmer texture after baking.
- Stir thoroughly so the cheese is evenly distributed.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is melted.