Baked Cheesy Penne Delight
Indulge in the creamy richness of this Baked Cheesy Penne Delight, an irresistible pasta dish that combines al dente penne rigate with a velvety cheese sauce, perfectly baked to achieve a crispy, golden top. This recipe is a wonderful balance of savory flavors, enhanced by freshly diced garlic and aromatic parsley. Whether you opt to bake it for that satisfying melted cheese crust or enjoy it straight off the stove for a quicker meal, it promises comfort in every bite. Don't forget to try it without the baking step first; you might just love it fresh and easy!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Penne Rigate
1 lb (uncooked)
Shredded Parmesan Cheese
7 oz (for topping and mixing)
Fresh Garlic
2 tablespoons (finely diced)
Fresh Parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Pesto Sauce
1 tablespoon (optional, for added flavor)
Butter
2-3 tablespoons (for cooking sauce)
All-Purpose Flour
2 tablespoons (for thickening sauce)
Chicken or Beef Broth
3/4 cup (for sauce)
Milk or Cream
3/4 cup (adjust for thickness)
Salt
to taste
Black Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the dish.
2
Cook the penne rigate according to package instructions (usually around 7 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.
3
In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
4
Add the finely diced garlic to the pot, stirring consistently for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is lightly browned.
5
Sprinkle in the flour, and stir continuously for another 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
6
Pour in the chicken or beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a boil, about 5 minutes.
7
Slowly add the milk or cream, continuing to stir until the mixture comes back to a gentle boil, approximately 3 minutes.
8
If using, add the pesto and seasonings (or use the seasoning packet from Borden Shred Medleys) and stir until the sauce thickens.
9
Incorporate about 3/4 cup of the shredded parmesan cheese, adjusting according to your cheese preference, and stir until melted and combined.
10
Pour the creamy sauce over the hot pasta and mix thoroughly.
11
If baking, transfer the pasta mixture to a 13x9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top.
12
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown.
13
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Baked Cheesy Penne Delight!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baked Cheesy Penne Delight?
It is an irresistible pasta dish that combines al dente penne rigate with a velvety cheese sauce, baked to achieve a crispy, golden top.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What temperature should I preheat the oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the dish.
How long does it take to cook the penne rigate?
The penne should be cooked for approximately 7 minutes to achieve an al dente texture.
What ingredients are needed for the base of the sauce?
The base of the sauce is made using butter, finely diced garlic, all-purpose flour, and broth.
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, the recipe allows for either chicken or beef broth depending on your preference.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of finely diced fresh garlic.
Is pesto sauce required for this recipe?
Pesto sauce is optional and can be added for extra flavor, specifically 1 tablespoon.
How do I make the roux for the cheese sauce?
Melt the butter, sauté the garlic, then sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this dish?
The recipe specifically recommends using 7 ounces of shredded Parmesan cheese.
How long should I bake the pasta?
Bake the pasta for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown.
What size baking dish should be used?
A 13x9 inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
Can I enjoy this dish without baking it?
Yes, you can serve it straight off the stove for a quicker, fresh meal without the baking step.
How much milk or cream should be added to the sauce?
Add 3/4 cup of milk or cream, adjusting as necessary to achieve your desired thickness.
What herbs are used to enhance the flavor?
Freshly chopped parsley and garlic are used to provide aromatic flavors.
How long should the garlic be sautéed?
The garlic should be stirred consistently for about 2-3 minutes or until it is lightly browned.
How much cheese goes inside the sauce versus on top?
Incorporate about 3/4 cup into the sauce and use the remaining cheese to sprinkle on top before baking.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Penne Rigate is the best choice because its ridges help the cheese sauce cling to the pasta.
Can I use seasonings from a packet?
Yes, you can use individual seasonings or a seasoning packet like one from Borden Shred Medleys.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The sauce should be velvety, creamy, and thick enough to coat the pasta thoroughly.
Is salt and pepper included in the measurements?
Salt and black pepper should be added according to your personal taste.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include pasta, baked, cheesy, creamy, comfort food, Italian, easy recipe, quick meal, and family dinner.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is considered an easy recipe and a quick meal suitable for a family dinner.
When should the broth be added?
The broth should be poured in after the flour has been cooked into a roux, then stirred until the mixture reaches a boil.
How long does it take for the broth mixture to boil?
It takes approximately 5 minutes of constant stirring for the broth mixture to reach a boil.
How do I know the baked pasta is finished?
The pasta is done when the cheese on top is fully melted and the edges have turned golden brown.
Can I use a different type of flour?
The recipe specifies all-purpose flour to ensure the sauce thickens correctly.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
You can adjust the thickness by adding a little more milk or cream during the simmering process.
Is the garlic preparation important?
Yes, finely dicing the garlic ensures it browns evenly and distributes flavor throughout the sauce.
What is the primary category of this dish?
The dish is categorized under Penne pasta recipes.