Spicy Sausage Pasta Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the robust taste of spicy sausage with tender pasta and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. The spicy sausage adds a kick of heat that is balanced by the creamy, melted cheese, creating a delightful medley of textures and flavors. Topped with a golden layer of cheese, this pasta bake is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Combine and Assemble:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and sausage-tomato sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy this Spicy Sausage Pasta Bake as a delicious and comforting meal that brings a bit of heat and a lot of flavor to your dinner table, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
