Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s simple to put together? Well, you’re in luck because this Easy Italian Pasta Bake recipe is here to save the day! This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with classic Italian flavors and cheesy goodness, this pasta bake will quickly become a favorite in your home.
**Easy Italian Pasta Bake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 pound ground Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (24 oz) of your favorite marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the sausage is almost browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors come together.
5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Once the pasta bake is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
11. Allow the pasta bake to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
12. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
This Easy Italian Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a regular on your menu rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe offers a delicious and hassle-free solution to mealtime. Enjoy the hearty flavors of Italy in every bite of this comforting pasta bake!
