Ingredients

6 tablespoons olive oil , divided
1 1/2 cups chopped onions
1 teaspoon minced garlic
3 cans Italian plum tomatoes , drained
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil ( optional )
1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 1/2 cups packed grated havarti cheese
1/3 cup sliced black olives
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 lb penne pasta
Baked penne pasta is a popular comfort food dish that originated in Italy. It typically consists of tube-shaped pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese, but can be customized with a variety of ingredients. This gourmet version includes havarti cheese and sliced black olives, which add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish. It can be served as a main course for a comforting dinner, or as a side dish for a potluck or picnic.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3.Add onions and garlic and sauté until onion is translucent, stirring occasionally.
4.Add in the tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, and simmer for 10 minutes.
5.Add chicken broth and simmer for another 10 minutes.
6.In a large bowl, toss together pasta, tomato sauce, havarti cheese, and black olives until thoroughly combined.
7.Transfer mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
8.Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top and cover with aluminum foil.
9.Bake for 20 minutes, uncover, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.

PROS

This baked penne pasta is a classic comfort food dish that is simple to make and sure to please the whole family.

It can be easily customized with different cheeses or vegetables for added variety.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

It can also be high in sodium if using canned ingredients, so look for low-sodium options when possible.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While not the healthiest option, this baked pasta dish contains calcium and protein from the cheese and chicken broth.
Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C and lycopene, which has been linked to reducing the risk of certain cancers.
Black olives are a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants.

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