Italian Sausage Pasta Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
If you’re looking for a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach, look no further than Italian Sausage Pasta Bake. This hearty casserole combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with pasta, veggies, and gooey melted cheese, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
A Personal Story Behind My Italian Sausage Pasta Bake Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday. One of our favorite dishes was the Italian Sausage Pasta Bake. My grandmother would prepare it with love, and the aroma would fill the house, drawing us all in. As we enjoyed this delicious meal together, I learned the importance of family and the joy that great food can bring. Now, I continue this tradition, sharing the recipe with my own family and friends.
What Makes This Italian Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe Special?
This Italian Sausage Pasta Bake is not just another pasta dish; it is a comforting blend of flavors and textures. The crumbled Italian sausage adds a rich, savory taste, while the combination of spices like oregano, basil, and fennel seeds gives it a distinctive Italian flair. Plus, the addition of green peas adds a pop of color and nutrition. It’s an easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
The Full Italian Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 10 ounces frozen green peas
- 12 ounces penne or ziti pasta, dry
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Tip: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the Italian sausage and brown it for about 5 minutes until no longer pink. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage for even cooking.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, fennel seed, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the frozen green peas and remove the sauce from heat.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta in the large bowl and stir to combine. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a large casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Garnish with parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can serve it with a side salad for a fresh contrast or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, try adding different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. If you prefer a spicier kick, simply use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can even sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for extra heat!
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it and load up on more vegetables.
Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon fennel seed
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 10 ounces frozen green peas
- 12 ounces penne or ziti pasta, dry
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the Italian sausage and brown it for about 5 minutes until no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage for even cooking.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, fennel seed, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the frozen green peas and remove the sauce from heat.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta in the large bowl and stir to combine. Mix in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a large casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Garnish with parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.