This Pasta and Sausage Casserole recipe is the perfect family-friendly dish that combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with the comfort of classic pasta. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to serve at gatherings, this casserole is sure to be a winner. The blend of flavors and textures creates a delightful dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious meal that will warm both hearts and bellies.
**Pasta and Sausage Casserole**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta, such as rigatoni or penne
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
7. In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta followed by half of the sausage mixture. Repeat with the remaining pasta and sausage mixture.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this Pasta and Sausage Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a well-rounded meal that will have your loved ones coming back for more. It’s a versatile dish that you can customize to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different types of pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this casserole is a delightful way to bring everyone together around the dinner table.
