Get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the heartiness of a classic pasta bake! Our Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. With a delightful blend of savory chicken sausage, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, this recipe promises to be a family favorite in no time. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian chicken sausage
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian chicken sausage and crumble the sausage into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sausage and marinara mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta bake.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Once done, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta Bake!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to cook the penne pasta just until al dente. This ensures it holds up well during baking and doesn’t become mushy.
- Sausage Selection: For an extra flavor boost, consider using spicy Italian chicken sausage. It adds a nice kick that complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
- Cheesy Goodness: Don’t skimp on the cheese! Feel free to mix different types of cheese like provolone or fontina for a richer flavor profile.
- Layering Flavors: For a more complex taste, try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds more texture to your bake.
- Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the pasta bake as it cooks. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Garnish with Freshness: Always finish your dish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness that elevates the entire meal.
- Make Ahead: This pasta bake can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.Enjoy creating this delicious Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta Bake that will surely delight your family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
