sausage and pasta bake

Sausage and pasta bake is a classic Italian dinner dish that is sure to impress your guests. The ingredients are simple and the dish comes together quickly, making it a great weeknight dinner for busy families. This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. It is a great way to use up any leftover ingredients in your fridge and can be tailored to suit any taste. Whether you prefer a milder sausage or a spicy one, this dish can be adjusted to your liking. Serve with a side of a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

This dish is packed full of delicious ingredients that all come together to create a classic Italian dinner. You will need:

1 pound of Italian sausage
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cups uncooked penne pasta

Instructions

This dish comes together quickly and easily, making it a great weeknight dinner. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Next, add the diced onion and garlic to the same skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the drained tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning and stir to combine. Simmer the sauce over low heat while you cook the pasta.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce in the skillet. Add the cooked sausage, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Carefully pour the mixture into a 9x13 baking dish and sprinkle with the chopped parsley. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sausage and pasta bake with a side of your favorite salad or vegetable for a complete meal. This dish is also great served with garlic bread or roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350 degree oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350 degree oven until heated through.

How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

If you prefer a spicier sausage and pasta bake, try using a spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce before baking.

Can This Dish Be Frozen?

Yes, this dish can be frozen. To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a 350 degree oven until heated through.

Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as rigatoni, ziti, or macaroni. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Use about 2-3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes are softened. You may also need to add a bit more tomato sauce to the dish.