why make this recipe
Italian Sausage Penne Casserole is a delightful one-dish meal that brings together the hearty flavors of Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it combines pasta, savory sausage, and rich cheeses into a comforting bake. It’s easy to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to please both kids and adults at the table.
how to make Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Ingredients :
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined and heated through.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sausage mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
how to serve Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Serve your Italian Sausage Penne Casserole hot out of the oven. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and some crusty bread. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh basil on top for added flavor and presentation.
how to store Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding more Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist, such as using cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- For extra vegetables, consider adding spinach or bell peppers to the sausage mixture.
variation
You can customize this casserole by using ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, you could substitute gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni or macaroni if you prefer.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! It can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure it’s well wrapped.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrition and flavor.
Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
A delightful one-dish meal combining pasta, savory Italian sausage, and rich cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined and heated through.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sausage mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook while baking. You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or using ground turkey for a lighter option.