Cheesy Baked Pasta with Italian Sausage (30 Minutes)

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This hearty dish combines al dente pasta, flavorful Italian sausage, and a rich and creamy cheese sauce that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. The unique quality of this dish lies in the harmonious blend of savory sausage and gooey cheese, creating a decadent combination that is hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or a comforting weekend dish, this meal has you covered. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess grease from the skillet.
  4. Add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the skillet with the cooked sausage and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
  7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and evenly distribute spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Opt for a combination of different cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or provolone for a more complex flavor profile. Serve the dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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