Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Italian Sausage

4 stars
4.31 (18)
Cheesy Pasta Casserole with Italian Sausage
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on November 23, 2023

This cheesy pasta casserole with Italian sausage is a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your taste buds. The flavorful combination of Italian sausage, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce makes it the perfect comfort food. It's easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this pasta casserole is a winner!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet used to cook the sausage, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and cooked sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Mix until well coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Casseroles are a popular type of dish in American cuisine, often made with a combination of meat, vegetables, and a starch like pasta or rice.
  • Pasta casseroles are a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of meat, cheese, and sauces.
  • Italian sausage adds a flavorful kick to this pasta casserole, but you can substitute it with ground beef, chicken, or even vegetarian options.
  • Leftovers of this pasta casserole can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day for a quick and delicious lunch.