Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food—Baked Penne! This classic, hearty pasta dish features layers of tender penne, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and velvety béchamel, all baked to golden perfection
0 Preheat the oven to 375 F
1 In a large pot, bring salted water to a full boil and cook the pasta to al dente. Follow the package manufacturer’s instructions.
5 Drain the pasta and return it to the cooking pot. Add the tomato sauce and mix well. Add all but one cup of bechamel to the pasta and combine.
6 Add the grated parmesan cheese and 3/4 of the mozzarella to the pasta and mix well.
7 Pour the remaining cup of bechamel into the bottom of your ovenproof pan. Pour over the pasta mixture. Smooth the top. Sprinkle with the two tablespoons of grated Parmigiano and the remaining mozzarella.
9 The remaining two tablespoons of butter should be cut into small pieces and placed all over the top, over the cheese, and in the corners.
8 Bake in the hot oven for 20 minutes or until the top bubbles. If you want a golden crust, broil for a couple of minutes – this step is optional.
BECHAMEL CREAM
2 Melt butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the flour. With a whisk, mix well until a thick cream is formed.
4 Add the milk slowly, constantly whisking, ensuring no lumps are formed. Add more milk as the sauce thickens. Add salt, pepper, and grated nutmeg as needed. When it is ready, the sauce should leave a thin layer on the back of a wooden spoon.
