Get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the heartiness of a family favorite! Our Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake with Sausage and Peppers is not just another pasta recipe; it’s a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With gooey mozzarella, savory Italian sausage, and vibrant bell peppers enveloped in a luscious marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the table. Dive into the details and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece that promises to please even the pickiest eaters!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pasta bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 lb of Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and cooked through.
- Add the diced bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
- Pour in the 24 oz jar of marinara sauce and stir to combine with the sausage and peppers. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sausage and pepper mixture. Stir in 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set a bit and make it easier to serve.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Pasta Bake with Sausage and Peppers!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the sausage and pepper mixture in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to combine it with the pasta and bake.
- Al Dente Pasta: Make sure to cook your penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures that your pasta bake has the perfect texture.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t hold back on the cheese! For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding a blend of different cheeses like provolone or gouda along with the mozzarella.
- Bake with Love: Covering the dish with foil initially helps the pasta bake cook evenly. Remove the foil towards the end to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese crust everyone loves.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pasta bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every cheesy bite of this delightful pasta bake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg
