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Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake

This Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake is a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful one-dish meal perfect for weeknights or guests!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb turkey sausage casings removed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bunch broccoli rabe chopped
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t rinse — you want the pasta to hold onto the sauce later.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage (with casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Now, add the chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet. Stir it in with the sausage and garlic, letting it cook down until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing well to combine the flavors.
  • Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir just until everything is evenly combined — the ricotta will add a creamy texture that envelops the pasta and sausage mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture into your 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. This cheese layer will form a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. If you want an extra bubbly top, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • Once out of the oven, let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Colander
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta initially; it will continue to cook in the oven and you want it perfectly tender, not mushy.
  • Removing the sausage from its casing helps it crumble better, mixing evenly throughout the dish.
  • Broccoli rabe can be bitter — blanch in boiling water for 1 minute before sautéing to mellow its flavor if desired.