After a long day filled with the hustle and bustle of life, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, home-cooked meal. Enter my Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs—a dish that effortlessly brings cheerful vibes to your dinner table while cutting down on kitchen chaos. The first time I tried this recipe, I marveled at how versatile and satisfying it was, making it perfect for meal prep or a cozy family gathering.
Imagine breaking into that golden, cheesy crust to reveal tender penne nestled in a rich tomato sauce, topped with juicy meatballs. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table—a scene that transforms any weeknight into a delightful occasion. Plus, whether you're following a gluten-free lifestyle or want to whip up a plant-based version, this dish is fully customizable, ensuring everyone's taste buds are delighted.
Let’s dive into this scrumptious one-pan wonder that offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor, making it a must-try for anyone yearning to ditch fast food for something homemade and delectable!
Why is Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs a Must-Try?
Comforting Taste: The Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs delivers that classic comfort food feeling that warms your soul after a long day.
Meal Prep Friendly: With straightforward one-pan cooking, this dish saves time on cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Whether you crave gluten-free pasta or a plant-based alternative, this recipe can easily adapt to your dietary preferences, catering to everyone’s needs.
Family Favorite: The cheesy, aromatic goodness of this dish will have everyone asking for seconds, making it a hit at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Time to indulge in a heartwarming, flavorful meal!
Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs Ingredients
For the Pasta Base
• Penne Pasta – A sturdy choice that holds the creamy sauce well; consider gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Crushed Fire Roasted Tomatoes – Adds a rich flavor and moisture to the dish; canned diced tomatoes are a great substitute.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Keeps it creamy while catering to dairy-free diets; can swap with regular milk if that's your preference.
• Olive Oil – Enhances the flavor and prevents sticking; feel free to use avocado oil as an alternative.
For the Flavor Boosters
• Garlic (mashed) – Infuses the dish with delicious garlic goodness; fresh garlic can be substituted for convenience.
• Garlic Powder – For concentrated garlic flavor; simply omit if using fresh garlic instead.
• Onion Powder – Deepens the flavor profile; fresh onions can replace this if desired.
• Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend that gives the dish its Italian flair; fresh herbs like basil or oregano are great alternatives.
• Kosher Salt – Elevates the overall taste; use table salt sparingly if that's what you have on hand.
For the Heart of the Dish
• Meatballs – The main source of protein; choose store-bought or homemade, or opt for shredded chicken or plant-based protein for alternatives.
• Parmigiano Reggiano (grated) – A delicious finishing touch for flavor and richness; nutritional yeast can take its place in a vegan option.
Indulge in the delightful creation of Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs, a dish that brings joy and flavors to your table!
How to Make Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures a perfectly baked dish with a golden top when it’s ready to enjoy.
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Combine the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, non-dairy milk, olive oil, garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt in a 9×13 baking dish or suitable meal prep containers. Make sure everything is evenly mixed for delightful flavor in every bite.
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Mix thoroughly using a spatula or spoon, allowing each ingredient to become friends in that cozy tomato sauce.
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Add the meatballs or your chosen protein, evenly distributing them throughout the mixture. This creates a harmonious dish that satisfies both meat lovers and plant-based eaters alike.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes until the pasta is tender and the kitchen is filled with mouthwatering aromas. Keep an eye on it—oven differences can vary!
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Broil for an additional 3-4 minutes for a perfectly golden brown top. Just stay vigilant, as broiling can make things crispy fast!
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Stir the baked dish gently before serving. Garnish with grated Parmigiano Reggiano for that final touch of yum!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs
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Quality Ingredients: Use fresh or high-quality ingredients, especially tomatoes and cheese, to elevate the flavor of your Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs considerably.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the baking time; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. The goal is tender, al dente penne!
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Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This lets the flavors marry and the sauce thicken, making every bite memorable.
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Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap out meatballs for your favorite protein, like sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or shredded chicken, to cater to varying dietary preferences.
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Perfect Broiling: Broiling can burn quickly, so stay nearby and check frequently to achieve that perfect golden brown top without any charred bits.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking to save time during busy weeknights! You can combine the dry penne pasta, crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, non-dairy milk, olive oil, and spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mixture until you're ready to bake. To maintain the quality, keep the meatballs separate until it's time to cook; this prevents them from becoming overly soft. When you’re set to serve, just add the meatballs, bake for 35-40 minutes, broil for a golden finish, and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this recipe your own!
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without worry about gluten.
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Vegan Delight: Replace meatballs with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, plant-based meal. You won’t miss the meat!
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Cheesy Twist: Add a layer of gooey mozzarella on top before broiling for an extra cheesy touch that’s simply irresistible.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to elevate the heat level and give your taste buds a thrill.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can take this dish to the next level, adding a burst of freshness and color.
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Veggie Extravaganza: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor, creating a veggie-rich masterpiece.
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Creamy Variation: Drizzle in some cream or a dairy-free alternative for a luscious, creamy texture that enchants every bite.
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Italian Classics: Top with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or Italian sausage for an authentic Italian twist that will leave you wanting more.
Let your imagination lead the way, and savor the beauty of customization in your kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days, ensuring freshness and preventing odors from other foods.
Freezer: This hearty dish freezes beautifully! Place in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in increments, stirring until warm. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs again!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs?
After enjoying your dish, complement it with delightful sides that enhance the overall meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and buttery richness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad adds a bright, crisp contrast to the savory baked penne, balancing the richness of the dish and lightening the meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie offers a light, healthy contrast. Its slight bitterness and crunchy texture beautifully enhance the creamy flavors of the penne.
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Roasted Vegetables: Assorted roasted veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, create a medley of earthy flavors that complement the dish, adding warmth and depth.
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Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or another light red wine elevates the meal, enriching the flavors and adding a touch of sophistication to your dinner table.
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Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with a slice of tiramisu. Its creamy mascarpone and coffee flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory dish, making every bite memorable.
With these pairs, your dinner will not only satisfy appetites but also create a gathering filled with warmth and joy around the table!
Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What kind of penne pasta should I use?
Absolutely! You can use traditional penne pasta for this recipe. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, I recommend using gluten-free penne. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted firm-level to prevent mushiness.
How do I store leftover Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the dish's freshness and flavor. To prevent any odors from other foods, make sure the containers are well-sealed!
Can I freeze the Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs?
Very! This hearty dish freezes well. Simply place it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What should I do if my pasta turns mushy?
To prevent mushy pasta, avoid overcooking during the initial baking. Keep an eye on the baking time and try taking it out once the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite to it. If you ever find it mushy, consider reducing the baking time next time or undercooking the pasta slightly before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for different dietary needs?
Absolutely! You can easily customize this Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs for various dietary preferences. For a vegan option, swap traditional meatballs for plant-based proteins and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmigiano Reggiano. Also, opting for non-dairy milk makes it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Can I use pre-cooked meatballs?
Yes! Store-bought or homemade pre-cooked meatballs make for a quick addition. Just mix them in with the other ingredients before baking, and they'll help save you time in the kitchen, making this dish even easier to whip up!
Irresistibly Easy Baked Penne with Meatballs for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine the penne pasta, crushed tomatoes, non-dairy milk, olive oil, garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Mix thoroughly using a spatula or spoon.
- Add the meatballs or your chosen protein.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Broil for an additional 3-4 minutes for a golden brown top.
- Stir the baked dish gently before serving. Garnish with grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
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