Lasagna is a beloved classic in the world of comfort food, known for its layers of tender pasta, savory sauces, and melted cheese. Traditionally made with flat lasagna noodles, this dish takes on a delightful twist when prepared with penne pasta and marinara sauce. The switch to penne offers a unique texture, allowing the sauce to cling to the pasta’s ridges, creating a heartier bite. Marinara sauce, with its rich tomato base and fragrant herbs, pairs perfectly with the creamy béchamel, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. This combination not only adds a new dimension to the beloved lasagna but also simplifies assembly, making it an ideal choice for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Embrace this innovative take on lasagna for a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
Why is this the best recipe?
Rich Flavors from Two Sauces: Combining both marinara and béchamel sauces offers a delightful mix of rich, savory tomato flavors and creamy, smooth béchamel, creating a deliciously balanced and satisfying dish. Cheese Lover’s Dream: The trio of cheeses—mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan—melts perfectly to create a gooey, golden topping and adds depth with their distinct flavors, making every bite a cheesy delight. Hearty and Comforting: The use of penne pasta instead of traditional lasagna noodles gives the dish a unique texture and makes it extra hearty, providing a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Easy to Assemble: This lasagna is straightforward to put together, with simple layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. It’s an excellent recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for a no-fuss yet impressive meal. Customizable: The recipe is versatile and can easily be customized. Add vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for extra nutrition, or incorporate ground meat for additional protein. Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a guaranteed hit at gatherings and family dinners. Its rich, creamy, and cheesy layers make it a favorite among both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Ingredients and substitutes
Penne – Well I’m using penne but ideally any of your favorite cooked pasta works. If you have leftover pasta in the fridge it’s ideal. If I’m using freshly cooked pasta I cook the pasta a bit less – so instead of 11 minutes, I cook it for only 9 minutes. Tomato Sauce – Today I’m using leftover of my basic homemade tomato sauce, sometimes I use a meat sauce too. You can even use store-bought if you don’t have any at home. Bechamel – this is by far the easiest sauce you can make. It takes just five minutes. Cheeses – Today I’m using Parmesan – I love the nutty flavor it brings. We love cheddar but you can use any cheese that works great for baking as Emantle or Gouda works too. And of course Mozzarella for that ultimate cheesy topping.
Step by step: Penna lasagna
Tomato sauce
In a heavy-bottom pan or Dutch oven, saute onions and garlic in oil over medium heat until translucent. Add the dried herbs, bay leaves, and brown sugar. Let it caramelize slowly so it browns, not burn. Next, add in the tomatoes (both cans) and tomato paste. Continue to cook on medium-high for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil. Cover the pan, lower the heat to a simmer, and let simmer gently for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, you should have a thick, dark tomato sauce. Add in your fresh basil leaves. Set aside until ready to use. This can be made up to 4 days ahead.
Bechamel sauce
Use a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium to low heat to melt the butter. Add flour and cook for two minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly add 1/2 cup milk – stirring continuously until there are no lumps. Continue to add the remaining milk – stir continuously to ensure no lumps. Cook for two minutes. Lower the heat and add the nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cheese. Continue to cook on low until thick, creamy and coats the back of a wooden spoon.
Assemble
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish with oil to prevent sticking. Boil pasta as per directions on the package. Start to layer the ingredients – Add Penne at the bottom. Evenly spread the tomato sauce all over the penne. Spoon the bechamel sauce slowly without mixing the two sauces. Grate the Parmesan cheese, followed by the Cheddar and then the Mozzarella. Place the baking dish on a parchment-lined baking tray for each cleanup. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until top is golden and bubbling. Let rest for 10 minutes before you serve
Tips for Success
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs, good-quality cheeses, and ripe tomatoes for the marinara sauce can make a significant difference. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the penne pasta is cooked al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft during baking. Season Each Layer: Season each component (marinara sauce, béchamel sauce, and pasta) well. This ensures that every bite is flavorful and well-balanced. Avoid Overloading Layers: When layering the lasagna, avoid making any layer too thick. This helps in even cooking and prevents the lasagna from becoming too heavy or soggy. Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut neat slices. Cover and Uncover Strategically: Cover the lasagna with foil for the initial baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove the foil in the last 15-20 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly. Add a Personal Touch: Feel free to customize your lasagna with additional ingredients like sautéed vegetables, ground meat, or fresh herbs. This can enhance the flavor and make the dish uniquely yours. Prepare in Advance: You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for entertaining or busy weeknights. Use an Oven Thermometer: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature by using an oven thermometer. Accurate baking temperatures are crucial for even cooking. Garnish for Freshness: Add a touch of freshness before serving by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
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Frequently asked questions
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