# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Sauce
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
04 - 1 to 2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
05 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 1 tsp sugar
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - ½ tsp salt
09 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1 small bunch fresh basil, chopped, reserve some for garnish
→ Cheese
11 - ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
02 - Boil penne in salted water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; sauté 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
04 - Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce slightly thickens.
05 - Remove sauce from heat and stir in chopped basil.
06 - Add drained penne to the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat.
07 - Spread half the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with half the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Layer remaining pasta on top and finish with remaining cheeses.
08 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted, golden, and sauce is bubbling.
09 - Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with reserved basil and serve warm.
