Italian For Pasta Bake

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty pasta bake straight out of the oven, isn’t there? The combination of pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs is a surefire way to bring the family together around the dinner table. In this recipe, we’re bringing you a delightful Italian twist on the classic pasta bake – introducing the Italian for Pasta Bake. This dish is bursting with rich Italian flavors that will transport you to the rustic kitchens of Italy with every delicious bite.

Italian For Pasta Bake

Ingredients:
– 1 lb penne pasta
– 1 lb ground Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried basil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

This Italian for Pasta Bake is a fantastic dish that captures the essence of traditional Italian flavors while being incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and enjoy the heartwarming goodness of this Italian-inspired pasta bake. Cheers to cozy evenings filled with delicious food and great company!