Sausage Pasta Blog

Sausage Pasta Bake

Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this sausage pasta bake is the ultimate go-to recipe for a cozy evening at home. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot. The combination of hearty sausage, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying and mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delectable sausage pasta bake!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 ounces short pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup 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 with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

6. Add the sausage and tomato sauce to the pot with the cooked pasta and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.

7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

9. Let the sausage pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!

Dig into this comforting and flavorful sausage pasta bake for a satisfying meal that will surely become a favorite in your household. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests impressed and your taste buds delighted. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete and scrumptious meal. Enjoy every bite of this delicious homemade recipe!