Description
Baked Penne Pesto Pasta combines al dente penne with creamy pesto and melted cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add penne and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, 1 cup mozzarella, and any optional ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time; just refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g