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Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Bake

This Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Bake is a cheesy, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta uncooked
  • 1 lb Italian chicken sausage casings removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the sausage and veggies
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 zucchini chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • to taste salt to balance and enhance flavors
  • to taste pepper to balance and enhance flavors
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the casings from the 1 lb Italian chicken sausage and crumble the meat into the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the can of crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the drained penne pasta and toss gently until every piece is coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
  • Bake the pasta for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. For an extra golden top, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes—just watch it closely to prevent burning.
  • Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Cheese Grater

Notes

  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat covered in a 350°F oven or microwave.
  • Freeze unbaked assembled pasta bake for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
  • Customize the vegetables seasonally by adding peas, asparagus, mushrooms, or greens like spinach or kale.