If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, and rich marinara sauce, all smothered in gooey, melted cheese that bubbles to golden perfection. This dish is not only incredibly satisfying but also wonderfully straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone wants something hearty without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the delicious layers of flavor and textures in this dish. From the spicy kick of Italian sausage to the creamy melt of shredded cheese, every component is essential for a truly memorable baked pasta experience.
- 1 pound uncooked penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 16 ounces Italian sausage: Adds a rich, savory, and slightly spicy element that defines the dish.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant warmth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: The vibrant base that ties everything together with a tangy tomato goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little kick.
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar: Melts beautifully for that irresistibly stretchy, cheesy layer.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: A sharp, nutty finishing touch that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
How to Make Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and positioning the rack in the upper third of the oven. This placement ensures your cheesy topping will brown beautifully without burning.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta just shy of al dente—about 2 minutes less than the package directs. This way, the pasta finishes cooking in the oven, soaking up all the rich sauce without becoming mushy. Drain and transfer it to a 9×13-inch baking dish to get ready for the mix-in.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Onions
While the pasta is cooking, toss the Italian sausage and chopped onion into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring now and then, until the sausage has nicely browned and the onions soften, about 8 to 10 minutes. If you notice excess fat, carefully spoon most of it out to keep the dish from feeling greasy but still juicy.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Marinara
Stir the minced garlic into the sausage and onion mixture and cook just until fragrant, roughly one minute. Then pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, if you’re using them. Allow the mixture to heat through for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld delightfully.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Pour the savory sausage sauce over your partially cooked penne in the baking dish. Add salt and pepper to taste, and gently toss everything until every pasta piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Smooth out the surface to prepare for the grand cheese topping.
Step 6: Top With Cheeses and Bake
Sprinkle the mozzarella or cheddar evenly over the penne, then follow with a generous layer of freshly grated parmesan. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, just long enough for the cheeses to melt and marry perfectly with the pasta. For an irresistible golden crust, switch your oven to broil for a few minutes at the end, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
How to Serve Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your baked penne with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gourmet touch, making every forkful feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese and sausage. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also make fantastic sides, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce that sticks to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This makes for a charming presentation whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a party. You can also layer in fresh spinach or mushrooms before baking for extra nutrition and flavor variations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover baked penne to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days or quick lunches.
Freezing
This Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze the fully cooked dish after it has completely cooled. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture quality.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, until heated through. You can remove the foil in the last few minutes to refresh the melted cheese topping. Alternatively, use a microwave for a quicker option, but the oven method preserves the dish’s texture best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain the flavor balance.
Is it necessary to boil the pasta before baking?
Yes, parboiling the pasta ensures it cooks fully without drying out in the oven. Cooking it a couple minutes less than the package instructions allows it to finish cooking while baking, absorbing all the sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free penne pasta, and double-check that your marinara sauce and sausage are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this classic comfort food without worries.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that gooey texture we all love, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor. Parmesan lends a nutty depth. Combining these cheeses gives the best overall taste and melting experience.
How spicy does this recipe get with red pepper flakes?
Adding 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes gives a moderate hint of heat that complements the sausage nicely without overpowering the dish. You can leave them out entirely or adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a celebration every time it’s served. With its comforting textures, rich flavors, and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it soon — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm, cheesy hug on every plate.
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Easy Baked Penne with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Baked Penne with Sausage is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired pasta casserole perfect for a family dinner. Al dente penne pasta is combined with savory browned Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and a flavorful marinara sauce, then topped with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses before baking to a golden bubbly perfection. A simple yet satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
Sausage Mixture
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheeses
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even baking and cheese browning.
- Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook it for 2 minutes less than the package instructions specify to keep it slightly firm. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Brown Sausage and Onion: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and chopped onion, cooking while stirring occasionally until the sausage is nicely browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. If there is excess fat rendered, carefully spoon out most of it.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic into the sausage and onion mixture and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine with Marinara: Pour in the marinara sauce along with the crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce is warmed through and well combined with the sausage mixture.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Pour the sausage and sauce mixture over the pasta in the baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated, then spread it out into an even layer.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or cheddar and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Broil for Browning: Turn the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to brown the cheese without burning. Remove from oven and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use mild, sweet, or spicy Italian sausage according to your preference.
- For a lower-fat version, use turkey sausage and reduce the amount of cheese or use part-skim varieties.
- If you like your pasta a bit saucier, add a little extra marinara sauce before mixing with the pasta.
- Be attentive during broiling as cheese can burn quickly.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
