Name: Pasta Bake with Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and black pepper to taste

Hey y’all! If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and crowd-pleasing, this Pasta Bake with Sausage is just what you need. Packed with tender Pasta, juicy sausage, rich tomato sauce, and loads of gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings with friends. Imagine bubbling cheese atop perfectly baked pasta and savory sausage—irresistible! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Bake with Sausage

Hearty and satisfying—the perfect all-in-one meal for busy nights.
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and cheese.
Freezes and reheats beautifully for meal prep.
Kid-friendly with a creamy, cheesy topping everyone will crave.
Ready in under an hour for a fuss-free family dinner.

Ingredients for Pasta Bake with Sausage

12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
24 oz (680g) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions: How to Make Pasta Bake with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes).
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, cook 1 more minute.

Step 3: Combine Sauce & Pasta

Pour in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Mix in cooked pasta until well combined and evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake with Sausage

Transfer half of the pasta-sausage mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Add remaining pasta mixture, top with last cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes for the Best Pasta Bake with Sausage

Use a high-quality sausage for maximum flavor—experiment with spicy or sweet varieties (Serious Eats: How to Buy Sausages).
Don’t overcook the pasta; it’ll continue cooking in the oven for a perfect tender bite.
Try adding spinach or mushrooms for extra veggie goodness and nutrients.

Variations on Pasta Bake with Sausage

Chicken Sausage Bake: Swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage and use a lighter cream for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Bake: Omit sausage and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
Spicy Sausage Rigatoni: Use hot Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes for a zesty kick.

Required Equipment for Pasta Bake with Sausage

Large pot
Large skillet
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing spoon and spatula
Colander

Storage Instructions for Pasta Bake with Sausage

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Pairings and Serving Recommendations

Pair with a simple arugula salad and crusty garlic bread.
Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to enhance the flavors.
Top with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped herbs for a fresh finish.

Pro Tips for Pasta Bake with Sausage

Shred your own mozzarella for better melting and flavor (Bon Appétit: Pre-shredded vs. Block Cheese).
Letting the bake rest for a few minutes after baking helps ingredients set and flavors meld.
Add a dollop of ricotta between pasta layers for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pasta Bake with Sausage

Can I make this Pasta Bake with Sausage ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake when ready (add 10 minutes to bake time if cold).

What type of pasta works best?

Sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti hold sauce and sausage well and create a pleasing texture.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use turkey or chicken sausage and substitute half-and-half or milk for cream for a lighter version. For more healthy pasta tips, check out EatRight: Healthy Pasta Meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Pasta Bake with Sausage

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Bake with Sausage

Ingredients for Pasta Bake with Sausage