Imagine a dish that combines the hearty richness of Italian sausage, the sweet crunch of roasted peppers, and a blanket of melted cheese that stretches with every forkful. This Cheesy Pasta Bake is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have your family begging for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe proves that gourmet-style comfort food can be both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage and pepper mixture. Toss gently to ensure even distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use fresh Italian sausage and choose a high-quality marinara sauce.
- Don't overcook the pasta—aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like adding some sharp cheddar for extra depth.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make cooking faster and more streamlined.
- Use a large, deep baking dish to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 85mg
