Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake (1 Hr, 10 Mins)

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Cheesy sausage pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory sausage pieces, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, bringing a satisfying and hearty meal to the table with minimal effort.

The sausages add a delicious depth of flavor, while the creamy cheese sauce envelops each pasta piece, making every bite a delight.

Easy to prepare and even easier to love, this pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite!

  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, cut into pieces
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta (10 minutes): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the sausage and vegetables (10 minutes): While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and the sausage is fully cooked, about 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Combine with sauce (5 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined.
  4. Assemble the bake (10 minutes): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage pieces evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
  5. Add cheese topping (5 minutes): Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sausage and pasta.
  6. Bake the dish (25 minutes): Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Garnish and serve (5 minutes): Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, mix in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sausage and marinara sauce before combining with the pasta. You can also add some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.

This dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy pasta bake with your family and friends!

*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

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Pair this with...

Garlic Breadsticks

To whip up a batch of garlic breadsticks, start with a basic dough mixture of flour, water, yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Knead until smooth and let it rise until doubled. Once risen, divide the dough into even portions and roll each into the classic breadstick shape. Place them on a baking sheet with a little space in between. While they take a short rest, melt some butter and mix in minced garlic, a touch of salt, and perhaps some chopped parsley for a fresh twist. Brush this delightful garlic butter mixture over the top of each breadstick. Pop them into a preheated oven and bake until they're golden brown and emit that irresistible garlic aroma. Once out of the oven, give them another quick brush with the remaining garlic butter for good measure.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Begin with fresh Brussels sprouts, trimming the ends and cutting them in half for a flat, roasting surface. In a mixing bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, ensuring each one is glistening and ready for the oven's heat. Now, drizzle them with good-quality balsamic vinegar, which will reduce and caramelize as they roast, imparting a deep, rich flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to balance out that balsamic sweetness. Spread the sprouts evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring each one has space to become crisp. Roast in a preheated oven until they’re beautifully browned and slightly crispy on the outside, while maintaining a tender bite inside.

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