Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake your creation. A well-prepped oven delivers toasty goodness every time!

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the penne pasta following the package directions until it’s al dente. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside. Don’t forget—overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the bake!

In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, cottage cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended. The garlic adds a punch, while the cottage cheese and sour cream give the dish that beloved creamy texture.

Add the drained pasta to the sauce mixture and gently fold them together. Don’t rush here; you want every piece of pasta coated in that luscious sauce! Finally, mix in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed.

Spread the pasta mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. You want to push it down gently—nobody likes a half-done bake! Now, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella on top like a delicious cheesy blanket.

Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-25 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through, and the cheese has melted and turned a lovely golden brown. The bubbling cheese is a sure sign that it’s ready!

Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Serve this cheesy masterpiece hot, and watch everyone gather around for seconds!