Indulge in the comforting flavors of Baked Cheesy Sausage and Pepper Pasta, a delightful dish that combines savory sausage, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your pasta cravings!
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Mix with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the sausage-vegetable mixture. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese until everything is well coated.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Finish in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sausage mixture ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Baked Cheesy Sausage and Pepper Pasta can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
What can I serve with this pasta dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.