Introduction
When you think of comfort food, a hearty sausage pasta bake likely comes to mind. This dish combines the satisfying flavors of savory sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, creating a meal that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it easy to adapt to what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this pasta bake won’t disappoint.
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta
- 400 g Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 400 g canned diced tomatoes
- 200 g tomato passata
- 150 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper, canned tomatoes, tomato passata, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage mixture in the skillet, stirring to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer the pasta bake mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
FAQs
What can I do if my pasta bake is too dry?
If your pasta bake turns out dry, try adding a splash of chicken or vegetable broth before baking to add moisture.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to substitute with chicken sausage, chorizo, or any sausage you prefer.
What if my cheese doesn't melt properly?
Make sure your oven is preheated and consider covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking to trap steam.
Can I add vegetables to the sausage pasta bake?
Absolutely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would be great additions.
What if my sauce is too thick?
You can thin the sauce by adding a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
How can I scale this recipe for fewer servings?
To scale down, simply halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish.
Conclusion
Sausage pasta bake is a fantastic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness are bound to please everyone, making it a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. This recipe is all about making it your own and enjoying the process of creating something delicious for your loved ones.
Recipe Card
Sausage Pasta Bake for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta
- 400 g Italian sausage casings removed
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 400 g canned diced tomatoes
- 200 g tomato passata
- 150 g mozzarella cheese shredded
- 50 g Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper, canned tomatoes, tomato passata, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage mixture in the skillet, stirring to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer the pasta bake mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
