Go Back
Italian Sausage Penne Casserole

Italian Sausage Penne Casserole

Italian Sausage Penne Casserole is your new weeknight superhero, offering a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired meal that's incredibly simple to prepare. This comforting dish is perfect for busy families and anyone craving a delicious, satisfying dinner without the fuss.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 0 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Italian sausage mild or hot, your preference
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 11.5 ounces penne pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (Optional)

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. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
    Italian sausage
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
    Italian sausage, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  5. Add the uncooked penne pasta directly to the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
    11.5 ounces penne pasta
  6. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese until mostly combined.
    2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  7. Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
    2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  9. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
    Fresh parsley

Notes

Italian Sausage Penne Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Can also be reheated in the microwave.