Parmesan Penne Recipe
My mother was not much of a cook. So I credit my husband for encouraging me to experiment in the kitchen. This is a fantastic all-in-one meal that features both a cream sauce and a meat sauce.
My mother was not much of a cook. So I credit my husband for encouraging me to experiment in the kitchen. This is a fantastic all-in-one meal that features both a cream sauce and a meat sauce.
- Carbohydrate 3.97360533754005 g
- Cholesterol 53.7056509747201 mg
- Fat 15.8657912943168 g
- Fiber 0.0875683349710563 g
- Protein 10.2602718020422 g
- Saturated Fat 8.54877538690427 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (94g)
- Sodium 198.410203229899 mg
- Sugar 3.886037002569 g
- Trans Fat 1.58397741555693 g
- Calories 200 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, cook and stir beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, 1/3 cup cheese, allspice, salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter.
- Stir in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk.
- Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from the heat; stir in 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Gradually whisk in eggs until blended.
- Drain pasta.
- Add the remaining cheese and butter; toss to coat.
- Spread a third of the meat mixture in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.
- Layer with half of the pasta, a third of the meat mixture and half of the white sauce.
- Repeat layers.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until bubbly.
- Yield: 12 servings.
- Instead of a traditional tossed salad, serve Parmesan Penne with garden-fresh vegetables.
- Sauté sliced zucchini, yellow squash and sweet red pepper in butter or margarine until crisp-tender.
- Season with garlic-salt and pepper.
Parmesan Penne: A Comfort Food Classic
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a monumental task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present need to keep everyone fed. That’s why I've always cherished recipes that are both flavorful and easy to prepare. This Parmesan Penne recipe is one of those lifesavers – a comforting, hearty dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pan wonder, reducing clean-up time significantly, which is a huge bonus after a long day. The combination of a rich meat sauce and a creamy parmesan sauce is a match made in heaven. It’s the perfect balance of savory and decadent, and the penne pasta perfectly absorbs both sauces, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and delicious.
This recipe came from a treasured cookbook, passed down from a friend, filled with family favorites. I’ve tweaked it slightly over the years to suit my preferences, adding a bit more spice here, a bit more cheese there. The true magic, however, lies in the method. Layering the ingredients – meat sauce, pasta, and creamy sauce – creates a beautiful presentation and ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. The time in the oven brings everything together beautifully, transforming the ingredients into a harmonious whole.
But it’s not just the taste that makes this dish special. It’s the memories associated with it. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and melting cheese fills my home, transporting me back to simpler times, filled with family and laughter. My kids adore it, especially on chilly evenings. The dish manages to bring everyone together around the table, creating a space for conversation and connection. This, more than anything, is what makes this dish a cherished part of my family's traditions.
Beyond the Recipe: Adaptability and Fun
The best part? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would be wonderful additions. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a variation on the theme. Even the type of pasta can be swapped out. While penne works perfectly, rotini, farfalle, or even rigatoni would be delightful alternatives.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how I can adapt it to my family’s needs. On busy weeknights, I prep the components in advance, assembling the dish before dinner and popping it into the oven when everyone is settled. It’s a perfect example of a make-ahead meal that simplifies life without compromising on taste.
This Parmesan Penne recipe isn't just a dish; it's a story. It's a story of experimentation in the kitchen, of family traditions, and of creating moments of connection around a shared meal. So, I urge you to try it. You might just find yourself adding it to your own collection of cherished recipes, a testament to the power of simple, delicious food.
Beyond the Kitchen: Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
Cooking, for me, is more than just preparing a meal; it's an act of love. It’s a way to show my family how much I care, and a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. The aroma of freshly baked bread, the sizzle of onions in a pan, the comforting warmth of a hearty stew – these are the things that anchor me, that remind me of the simple joys of life.
And it's not just about the big moments; it’s about the little ones too. The shared laughter around the dinner table, the quiet moments of connection while washing dishes, the feeling of satisfaction that comes with creating something beautiful and delicious. These are the memories that shape who we are, and they're the things I want to share with my family.
This recipe, therefore, represents more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions. It’s a symbol of nourishment, both for the body and the soul. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, there’s always time for simple pleasures, for moments of connection, and for the joy of creating something delicious to share with those we love. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's create some memories together!
