When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and satisfying taste of a well-made baked penne pasta. The combination of al dente pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese is a match made in heaven. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can try something new and exciting? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious recipes for creamy baked penne pasta that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic three-cheese variations to more adventurous combinations like spicy sausage and sun-dried tomato, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got you covered. So grab some penne pasta, get creative with your sauce game, and let’s dive into the world of creamy baked goodness.
Three-Cheese Baked Penne Pasta
This comforting dish combines the classic flavors of penne pasta with a rich and creamy three-cheese sauce, baked to perfection in the oven. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup (125ml) grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked penne pasta, heavy cream, and the cheese mixture. Mix well to combine.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Baked Penne
A creamy and delicious twist on classic penne pasta, this Spinach and Artichoke Baked Penne recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Add spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and flour in a large bowl.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage Baked Penne
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy Italian sausage with creamy penne pasta and a hint of red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor. Perfect as a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish; top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Baked Penne
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter sauce and penne pasta, baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until combined.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and garlic butter sauce in a baking dish. Toss to combine.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Pesto Baked Penne
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish perfect for a cozy evening or a potluck gathering, this Sun-Dried Tomato and Pesto Baked Penne combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the herby taste of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the tomato-pesto mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Baked Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and satisfying dish, featuring chicken, penne, and a rich Alfredo sauce baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in butter until cooked through. Add flour and stir to combine.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Truffle Oil Baked Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and the luxurious flavor of truffle oil. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and truffle oil. Toss until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Baked Penne
A creamy and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and baked penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Baked Penne
A spicy twist on classic baked pasta, this Buffalo chicken penne is a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked penne pasta.
5. Top the pasta with the Buffalo chicken mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Baked Penne
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted pumpkin, savory sage, and creamy pasta to create a cozy and satisfying dish perfect for fall gatherings. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta al dente; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add pumpkin, olive oil, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pumpkin mixture, chopped sage, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Baked Penne
A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful twist on traditional baked pasta. This recipe combines the richness of pesto with the creaminess of mozzarella for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with sliced mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball Marinara Baked Penne
Transform classic penne pasta into a hearty, satisfying dish by combining meatballs and marinara sauce with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 cup (120ml) breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup (250ml) marinara sauce
– 1 cup (250ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
4. Form meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. In a separate saucepan, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. In a large baking dish, combine cooked penne pasta and marinara sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Arrange meatballs on top of pasta mixture.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Baked Penne
Roasted Red Pepper Baked Penne: A flavorful and colorful twist on classic baked pasta!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne pasta, pepper mixture, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon and Pea Baked Penne
A creamy, flavorful twist on classic baked pasta, this recipe combines the savory goodness of bacon with the sweetness of fresh peas.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add frozen peas to the same skillet and stir-fry until thawed and tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, bacon, and peas.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cheddar cheese until smooth.
7. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta mixture and stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Baked Penne
This recipe combines the flavors of eggplant parmesan with the comfort of baked penne pasta. A perfect twist on a classic, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 jar marinara sauce (16 oz)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices in olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large baking dish, combine cooked penne pasta, marinara sauce, and breaded eggplant slices.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster and Cream Sauce Baked Penne
This decadent dish combines the richness of lobster with the comfort of creamy penne pasta, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lobster meat, diced
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lobster meat and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta and lobster mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Baked Penne
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines sweet caramelized onions, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and al dente penne for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, caramelized onions, gorgonzola cheese, heavy cream, and thyme. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Baked Penne with Feta
A Mediterranean-inspired twist on traditional baked pasta, this recipe combines the flavors of Greece with penne pasta, feta cheese, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Baked Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and spicy Jalapeño Popper Baked Penne. This recipe combines the flavors of jalapeños, cream cheese, and mozzarella for a bold and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups jalapeño popper filling (see note)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine jalapeño popper filling, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cilantro. Mix well.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the filling mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on BBQ pulled pork, perfectly balanced with creamy penne and rich flavors. This hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Transfer the pork mixture to a baking dish and cover with BBQ sauce.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix well.
7. Serve the pulled pork on top of the pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comfort of creamy baked penne pasta with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic three-cheese and spinach and artichoke to spicy sausage and buffalo chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic butter shrimp, sun-dried tomato and pesto, or mushroom and truffle oil for a taste of elegance. Go veggie with broccoli and cheddar or pumpkin and sage, or opt for meatball marinara or roasted red pepper for a hearty meal. Whatever your craving, these creamy baked penne pasta recipes are sure to satisfy.