Sausage Alfredo Baked Penne

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s both hearty and rich, look no further than Sausage Alfredo Baked Penne. This recipe combines tender penne pasta with a luscious Alfredo sauce, savory turkey sausage, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, delivering big flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s easy to customize and sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why It’s My Go-To

I love Sausage Alfredo Baked Penne because it hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein. The turkey sausage adds a flavorful punch without being too heavy, while the Alfredo sauce is decadently smooth, coating every piece of pasta beautifully. This dish is a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a crowd-pleaser. It also reheats well, which means leftovers taste just as amazing the next day. If you’re a fan of dishes like Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta One Pot, this baked penne is right up your alley but with its own unique twist.

Ingredient Notes

• Penne Pasta (8 ounces): Penne’s tubular shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy Alfredo sauce and melted cheese.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté the sausage and garlic, adding a subtle richness to the base flavors.
• Turkey Sausage (1 pound, casings removed): A leaner alternative to pork sausage, it brings savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for that aromatic boost — feel free to adjust based on your love of garlic.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the silky Alfredo sauce that envelops the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the creaminess.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully and provides that irresistible cheesy pull on top.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to brighten the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to finish.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta to al dente.
• Large skillet: To cook the turkey sausage and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the cooked pasta and Alfredo sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch): To bake the assembled pasta and cheese.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sausage and sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure ingredient accuracy.
• Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
• Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.

Sausage Alfredo Baked Penne Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente — usually about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of turkey sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the sausage. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, then gradually stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy sausage Alfredo sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for an earthy, green twist.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for bursts of tangy sweetness.
• For a spicy kick, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Top with toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture ensures it won’t turn mushy in the oven.
• Make sure the sausage is fully cooked and nicely browned for maximum flavor.
• Be careful not to let the cream boil vigorously — it can separate and affect the sauce texture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a smoother sauce.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals stirring between.

This dish also freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken or beef sausage, just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing with the pasta.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta and sauce, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What’s the best cheese to use for melting on top?

Mozzarella is ideal due to its creamy melt and mild flavor, but you can also mix in provolone or fontina for a more complex cheese topping.

Serve with These

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta for a classic Italian side inspiration.
• Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Bake if you want to add a protein-packed main alongside.
• Simple garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad to round out the meal.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans for balance.

That’s a Wrap

Sausage Alfredo Baked Penne is the ultimate comfort food: creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this baked penne recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in a pasta dish that’s truly satisfying from the first bite to the last.

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