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Italian Sausage Baked Penne

Italian Sausage Baked Penne

Discover the ultimate Italian Sausage Baked Penne, a comforting and incredibly satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. This recipe offers a delicious and fuss-free way to enjoy classic Italian flavors, making it a go-to for any home cook.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta Bake
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. It should still have a slight bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set aside.
    1 pound penne pasta
  3. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
    1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  4. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
    1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
    2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
    1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
    salt and freshly ground black pepper
  8. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sausage and tomato mixture.
    1 pound penne pasta
  9. Pour about half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
    1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  10. Spoon the remaining pasta and sauce mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
    1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  11. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
  12. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  13. Let the Italian Sausage Baked Penne stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
    1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Notes

This baked penne is hearty and comforting, featuring a rich sausage and tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. It's budget-friendly and can be customized. Optional red pepper flakes add a kick.