Indulge your taste buds with a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion—Baked Penne Pasta with Italian Sausage! This rich, cheesy delight combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, all enveloped in a savory marinara sauce. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe promises to satisfy your hunger and impress your guests. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up this Italian classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked penne pasta cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 lb of Italian sausage. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the 2 cups of marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, the sausage and marinara mixture, and the 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Mix gently until all the pasta is well coated with the sauce and cheese.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. This will help to melt the cheeses and heat the pasta through.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious baked penne pasta with Italian sausage!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures the pasta retains its texture and doesn’t become mushy.
- Sausage Selection: For the best flavor, choose high-quality Italian sausage. You can use sweet or spicy sausage depending on your preference, or even a combination of both for a flavor kick!
- Layering Cheese: Don’t be shy with the cheese! Feel free to add extra mozzarella or even sprinkle some provolone for a unique twist. A mix of cheeses can elevate the dish to new heights.
- Simmering the Sauce: Allow the marinara sauce to simmer with the sausage for a few extra minutes to enhance the flavor. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh touch.
- Baking Tips: Cover the dish with foil during the first half of baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes will give you that perfect bubbly, golden crust.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish’s flavor. Consider adding some grated lemon zest for a refreshing twist!
- Make Ahead: This recipe is great for meal prep! Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.Enjoy creating this deliciously hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 810kcal
Carbohydrates: 63g
Protein: 47g
Fat: 47g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 140mg
