Name: No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe: Comforting Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta (half of the box); 1 28-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes; 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended); 1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons oregano; 1-2 teaspoons salt (2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt preferred); Meatballs, cooked shredded chicken, or other protein of choice (quantity as desired); A few handfuls of fresh spinach; Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

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Introduction

No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe is a delightful dish that has transformed my approach to weeknight dinners. This comforting and easy-to-make Italian-American casserole features whole wheat penne pasta baked directly in a flavorful mixture of crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, milk, melted butter, and aromatic spices. With the addition of meatballs, fresh spinach, and a cheesy topping, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction without the fuss of boiling pasta. Let’s dive into this one-pan wonder that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!

Why You’ll Love This No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

This no-cook baked penne recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights! Here are a few reasons to love it:

It’s a true one-pan no-boil penne meal, reducing cleanup time.
Quick baked penne recipe with meatballs that’s ready in just under an hour.
Customizable with your choice of protein, whether meatballs or shredded chicken.
Comfort food at its best, with a luscious, cheesy finish that everyone will adore.
Rich in flavor thanks to fire-roasted tomatoes and aromatic spices.
Perfect for families, offering healthy no-boil baked pasta options with whole wheat penne.

Ingredients for No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

Gather these items:

8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta (half of the box)
1 28-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons oregano
1-2 teaspoons salt (2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt preferred)
Meatballs, cooked shredded chicken, or other protein of choice (quantity as desired)
A few handfuls of fresh spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get ready for baking the pasta casserole.
Step 2: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, mix together the whole wheat penne, crushed fire roasted tomatoes, milk, melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and your choice of cooked protein like meatballs or shredded chicken until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, ideally using a double layer to prevent steam from escaping, and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid and cook thoroughly without boiling.
Step 4: Carefully remove the foil (be cautious, it will be very hot), stir the casserole gently, then add your fresh spinach on top along with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Place the dish under the oven broiler for 3 to 5 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese topping nicely, adding delicious flavor and texture.
Step 6: Let the baked penne rest for a few minutes after removing from the broiler so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!

No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe: Comforting Delight - NO-BOIL BAKED PENNE, MEATBALLS RECIPE - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor in your baked penne with meatballs and cheese.
Don’t rush the resting time after baking; it helps thicken the sauce.
For a gluten-free no-boil baked penne recipe, substitute with gluten-free penne pasta.
This dish is perfect for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers for a quick meal later.
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Best Ways to Serve No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:

Serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with garlic bread for a comforting Italian feast.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

To store leftovers, let the baked penne cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe

What’s the secret to perfect No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together during the baking process. Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in for the best results in this easy no-boil penne pasta dish.

Can I make No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your pasta is evenly distributed in the dish and that there is enough liquid for it to cook properly. If using larger meatballs, cut them in half to ensure they heat through evenly.

Variations of No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe You Can Try

Feel free to customize this recipe! Here are a few variations:

For a vegetarian no-boil baked penne variation, substitute meatballs with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta for a creamier texture.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the sauce.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are free from gluten.

No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe: Comforting Delight - NO-BOIL BAKED PENNE, MEATBALLS RECIPE - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Healthy Sloppy Joes or Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup. You can also explore Vegetable Lentil Soup for a hearty option.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe!

No-Boil Baked Penne, Meatballs Recipe: Comforting Delight

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Author: Margaret
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This No-Boil Baked Penne with Meatballs is a comforting and easy-to-make Italian-American casserole featuring whole wheat penne pasta baked directly in a flavorful mixture of crushed fire roasted tomatoes, milk, melted butter, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta (half of the box)
1 28-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes
2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
1/2 cup Land O Lakes® Butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons oregano
1–2 teaspoons salt (2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt preferred)
Meatballs, cooked shredded chicken, or other protein of choice (quantity as desired)
A few handfuls of fresh spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

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Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get ready for baking the pasta casserole.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, mix together the whole wheat penne, crushed fire roasted tomatoes, milk, melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and your choice of cooked protein like meatballs or shredded chicken until everything is evenly incorporated.
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, ideally using a double layer to prevent steam from escaping, and bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid and cook thoroughly without boiling.
Carefully remove the foil (be cautious, it will be very hot), stir the casserole gently, then add your fresh spinach on top along with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese.
Place the dish under the oven broiler for 3 to 5 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese topping nicely, adding delicious flavor and texture.
Let the baked penne rest for a few minutes after removing from the broiler so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!