Baked Penne

Baked Penne: Comfort Food, Simplified

Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling deadlines at the office, school pick-ups, and making sure everyone gets fed, finding time for anything beyond the bare minimum feels like a luxury. That's why I treasure recipes like this Baked Penne. It's a hearty, satisfying dish that's surprisingly easy to pull together, even on the busiest of evenings. Forget complicated techniques and fussy ingredients; this recipe is all about simple, delicious comfort food.

The beauty of this Baked Penne is its versatility. I often adapt it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I use different types of cheese – a sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, or a blend of Italian cheeses elevates it to a whole new level. And the pasta sauce? I've experimented with everything from classic marinara to creamy tomato basil, and honestly, they all work beautifully. The key is to make sure the flavors complement each other; don't be afraid to get creative!

One of my favorite shortcuts is using pre-shredded cheese. Let’s be honest, who has time for grating cheese from a block after a long day? However, if you're aiming for the best melt, taking the time to shred your own is worth it. Also, I always try to use whole-wheat pasta whenever possible, just to sneak in a little extra fiber without sacrificing flavor. Small steps towards healthier eating can really add up over time.

This dish is also perfect for meal prepping. I often make a double batch on the weekend, bake half, and store the other half in the refrigerator. It reheats beautifully and makes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The leftovers are also fantastic cold, perfect for a quick lunch on the go. My kids devour it, cold or hot. It’s one of the few dishes that survives the chaos of a busy household. This dish is not just about taste and efficiency, it’s about providing a comforting, familiar meal in a hectic world. I hope it brings you a little bit of solace and some extra time in your day.

Ingredients I love to add:

• Sausage - Browned Italian sausage adds a delicious savory flavor.
• Spinach – A handful of fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the oven and adds a nutritional boost.
• Mushrooms – Sliced mushrooms add a fantastic earthy flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – These bring a burst of intense flavor.

Making it your own:

Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables and sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions:

Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad can enhance the overall experience of this comforting meal.

Step-by-step

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
• Cook the pasta according to package directions less 1-2 minutes. Your pasta should be a little al dente because it will continue cooking in the oven.
• While the pasta is cooking, mix the sour cream, cottage cheese, garlic, sauce, and about 3 cups of the shredded mozzarella in a large bowl.
• When pasta is done cooking, drain well. Add to sauce mixture and stir to combine. Pour into your baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
• Bake for about 30 minutes and let stand for 10-15 minutes before eating.
• You can make the dish ahead of time and store, covered, in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking, otherwise it will take longer to cook.