Discover how to make easy baked penne with sausage, a delicious and comforting pasta dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. Try it tonight!
Easy Baked Penne with Sausage
Why You’ll Love It
This easy baked penne with sausage recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It combines hearty Italian sausage with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and plenty of flavor to satisfy cravings. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a comfort meal that’s ready in under an hour. You’ll love how the sausages add richness and depth to a classic pasta bake.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed (substitute with ground turkey or plant-based sausage for lighter or vegan options)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (use sugar-free or homemade for a healthier twist)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (use vegan ricotta for dairy-free)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (dairy-free cheese works here too)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, sausage sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until well incorporated.
- Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
For more comforting meals, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and explore savory pasta options in Pasta Recipes. For ingredient tips, see Food Network.
Expert Tips
Use hot pasta water sparingly when mixing to keep the sauce creamy but not watery. If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes with the garlic. For a gluten-free version, swap penne for a certified GF pasta. Make ahead by preparing the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, vegan ricotta, and dairy-free cheeses.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to avoid gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan cheeses and omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.
- Low-Carb: Replace penne with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of sausage in this baked penne?
- Yes! Italian sausage is classic, but you can use spicy sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative.
- How do I make easy baked penne with sausage gluten-free?
- Simply swap the regular penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the same great flavor without gluten.
- Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Assemble the bake and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave until warmed through.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Yes, it stores well and makes great make-ahead meals.
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