Do you ever find yourself craving a comforting and hearty meal that’s simple to prepare and loved by the whole family? Look no further than our delicious Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake recipe. Packed with flavorful sausage, gooey cheese, and tender pasta, this dish is a surefire way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a cozy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb sausage, casings removed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Mix well to ensure the pasta is coated evenly.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
8. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the dish.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once done, let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy this Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake piping hot, straight from the oven, for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s bound to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect blend of savory sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness, all baked to perfection. This dish is great for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting homemade meal. We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table!
