Sausage Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food: cheesy, saucy, and loaded with hearty flavor. This one-pot wonder is perfect for picky eaters, thanks to familiar ingredients like pasta, sausage, and melty cheese. You can even prep it in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Ideal for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this dish saves time without sacrificing flavor. It’s warm, filling, and exactly the kind of dinner everyone agrees on.

Servings: 6

Nutrition: 450–550 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or sweet), casings removed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Brown the Sausage: In a large oven-safe skillet or pot, heat olive oil and cook the sausage until browned. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
• Add Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in marinara sauce, stir in Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.
• Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat in sauce.
• Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the pasta.
• Bake Until Bubbly: Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use Leaner Sausage: Substitute chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
• Swap the Pasta: Try gluten-free or whole wheat pasta if needed.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short bursts, covered.

Top Tips

• Undercook the Pasta Slightly: It will finish cooking in the oven, so keep it a little firm after boiling.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be drier and less melty—freshly grated gives the best texture.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I freeze this pasta bake?
  Yes, freeze it before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes.
• Can I use a different type of sausage?
  Absolutely. Use any sausage your family prefers—just remove the casings if needed.

Related Recipes

• Creamy Tomato and Bacon Penne: Creamy and smoky with a touch of tomato, this pasta dish comes together quickly and satisfies everyone.
• Mild Chicken Curry: Creamy, comforting, and not too spicy—this curry is a gentle way to introduce new flavors to cautious eaters.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook the Sausage Thoroughly: Make sure sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store leftovers within 2 hours of baking.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate utensils for raw sausage and cooked ingredients.