Penne With 5 Cheeses Ala Barefoot Contessa – Ina Garten
Overview
Penne with 5 Cheeses Ala Barefoot Contessa by Ina Garten is a decadent yet straightforward pasta dish that brings together the rich flavors of five different cheeses. Inspired by the renowned chef’s emphasis on make-ahead dishes, this recipe promises a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 702 per serving
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 out of 5 stars)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne | 1 pound |
| Crushed tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Gorgonzola | 1/2 cup |
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups |
| Fontina cheese | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
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Cook Penne: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta for just 4 minutes, or until barely al dente (it will continue to cook in the oven). Drain the pasta well.
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Prepare Sauce: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, cream, Parmesan cheese, Gorgonzola, Ricotta cheese, Fontina cheese, Mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Stir until well combined.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the cheese mixture in the mixing bowl. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
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Assemble for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into individual shallow serving dishes or a large shallow casserole dish (such as a 13×9-inch pan).
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Dot with Butter: Dot the surface of the pasta with small pieces of butter.
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Bake: Place the dish(es) in the preheated oven and bake for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and bubbly.
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Serve or Store: Serve the Penne with 5 Cheeses immediately, or if preparing ahead, cool and refrigerate uncovered. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until heated through.
Tips for Success
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Cheese Selection: Use a variety of cheeses as specified for the best flavor. The combination of Parmesan, Gorgonzola, Ricotta, Fontina, and Mozzarella creates a balanced and creamy texture.
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Pasta Cooking: Be cautious not to overcook the penne initially, as it will soften further during baking.
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Make-Ahead: This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. Simply assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
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Garnish: Consider topping with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a vibrant finish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 702 kcal
- Fat: 41.6g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Cholesterol: 138.2mg
- Sodium: 528.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 66.3g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 2.2g
- Protein: 19.2g
Conclusion
Penne with 5 Cheeses Ala Barefoot Contessa is a delightful dish that combines ease of preparation with rich, indulgent flavors. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Enjoy the convenience of preparing ahead and savor the deliciousness straight from your oven to the table!
