Penne Super Casserole
A hearty baked penne casserole featuring a savory tomato and spinach sauce, cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook penne in boiling, salted water according to package directions and drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepot.
- Add frozen pearl onions and crushed garlic, then sauté at low heat.
- Stir in canned tomatoes plus their liquid and break up the tomatoes.
- Add tomato paste, sugar, and salt; stir to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding some ricotta cheese or using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. If you don’t have frozen pearl onions, fresh chopped onions can work well too. To enhance flavor, add spices such as oregano or basil. This dish can easily be adapted to include other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, similar to the approach in Vegetable Baked Ziti.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider offering a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for added freshness. For a more substantial dinner, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup, complementing the Italian flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven to maintain the casserole's texture; cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne Super Casserole contains roughly 1217 calories, with 15g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different texture, you can substitute ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option. This will still provide creaminess while altering the flavor slightly, but it will work well in this dish.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. You’ll need about 12 ounces of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted before adding it to the mixture, as this will help reduce excess moisture in the casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).