Introduction:
For anyone who loves Italian-inspired comfort food, Creamy Baked Alfredo Penne with Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Basil is the perfect recipe. With rich, velvety Alfredo sauce and layers of gooey, melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is as satisfying as it is indulgent. Ideal for cozy nights, family dinners, or potlucks, this baked pasta combines traditional Alfredo flavors with a baked, golden-brown crust. Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or simply craving a heartwarming meal, this recipe will be a favorite.
Ingredients:
- Pasta: 12 oz penne pasta
- Butter: 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Milk: 1 cup (whole milk recommended)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 ½ cups, grated
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded and divided
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp (optional for a slight kick)
- Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped
- Olive Oil: 1 tsp (for greasing the baking dish)
Preparation:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 9-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy (about 4-5 minutes).
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to incorporate all seasonings.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, stirring until each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Sprinkle in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir to combine. The cheese will melt slightly into the sauce, making it extra creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Pour the Alfredo-coated pasta into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and ½ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Alfredo Penne
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden-brown.
- For a more browned crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the baked pasta from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set.
- Sprinkle fresh basil over the top before serving.
Cooking Notes:
- Choose Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and high-quality mozzarella. Pre-grated cheeses can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Consistency of Sauce: If you prefer a slightly thinner sauce, add an extra splash of milk or a few tablespoons of pasta cooking water before mixing the pasta and sauce.
- Customizing the Flavor: For a bit of zest, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the Alfredo sauce or sprinkle some lemon zest before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the richness of this dish.
Tips:
- Boil Pasta Until Just Al Dente: Since the pasta will cook further in the oven, boiling it until just al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken breast, Italian sausage, or shrimp before baking.
- Making Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 1 day. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to account for the cold temperature.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Alfredo Penne with Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Basil is a delightful, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The richness of Alfredo sauce combined with melted mozzarella and a hint of fresh basil makes it a comfort food classic. This recipe not only satisfies pasta cravings but is easy to adapt with additional flavors. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, a special occasion, or a cozy evening at home, it’s sure to impress and be loved by all.
PrintCreamy Baked Alfredo Penne with Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Basil
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz penne pasta
- Butter: 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Milk: 1 cup (whole milk recommended)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 ½ cups, grated
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded and divided
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp (optional for a slight kick)
- Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped
- Olive Oil: 1 tsp (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 9-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy (about 4-5 minutes).
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to incorporate all seasonings.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, stirring until each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Sprinkle in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir to combine. The cheese will melt slightly into the sauce, making it extra creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Pour the Alfredo-coated pasta into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and ½ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Alfredo Penne
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden-brown.
- For a more browned crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the baked pasta from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set.
- Sprinkle fresh basil over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 22g