Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Mix well.
4. In the baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
5. Add half of the cooked penne pasta on top of the sauce.
6. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the pasta.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta cheese mixture.
8. Repeat layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the dish.
10. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
11. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total carbohydrates: 51g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Total sugars: 8g
Protein: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Penne pasta can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Marinara sauce can be substituted with any other type of tomato-based pasta sauce.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with any other type of shredded cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the dish for a meaty version.
- Add sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the dish for a vegetarian version.
- Use different types of pasta, such as rigatoni or fusilli, for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Mix the ricotta cheese mixture well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the dish in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with additional chopped basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Pairings:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dish is too dry, add a little more marinara sauce or a splash of milk.
- If the dish is too watery, let it bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the dish to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Baked pasta dishes, such as lasagna and baked ziti, have been popular in Italian cuisine for centuries. Ricotta cheese is a common ingredient in many Italian pasta dishes.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory and cheesy, with a hint of sweetness from the marinara sauce.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian