This baked penne with Italian sausage is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines pasta, savory sausage, and rich tomato sauce. It works well for family dinners or meal prep, offering a tasty blend of flavors in every bite.

The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your choice of cheese or vegetables. It’s a good way to enjoy a comforting meal that will please everyone at the table.

Overview of Baked Penne with Italian Sausage

This baked penne dish is a comforting meal that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and marinara sauce, combined with perfectly cooked penne pasta.

The melted cheese on top adds a nice texture, while fresh basil provides color and flavor.

It’s a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The key components of this dish include al dente penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a strong marinara sauce.

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating a hearty meal.

Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses contribute to the creamy and cheesy topping that everyone loves.

Cooking Process

The preparation begins with cooking the penne pasta until it reaches the ideal texture.

In a skillet, the Italian sausage is browned and combined with onions and garlic, filling the dish with aromatic flavors.

Once the sausage is cooked, the marinara sauce and seasonings are added, creating a rich mixture that coats the pasta well.

Assembling the Dish

After mixing the pasta with the sausage and sauce, the next step is to transfer everything into a greased baking dish.

Layering the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top creates a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.

Covering the dish with foil initially helps to lock in moisture, making sure the pasta stays tender.

Baking to Perfection

The baking process is important for getting that perfect cheesy top.

After the initial baking time, removing the foil lets the cheese brown and develop a tasty crust.

This step transforms the dish into a visually appealing centerpiece for any table.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil.

This adds color and freshness that goes well with the rich flavors of the pasta.

Pairing it with a slice of garlic bread makes for a complete meal that will please everyone.

Hearty Baked Penne with Italian Sausage

This dish features al dente penne pasta mixed with Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked penne pasta and ricotta cheese until well combined.
4. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Baked Penne with Italian Sausage Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
• Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked penne pasta and ricotta cheese until well combined.
• Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve hot.