Italian Sausage Penne Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of Italian cuisine with this mouthwatering Italian Sausage Penne Casserole. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to our hearts and homes. With its rich flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Join me as we explore how to create this classic dish that will surely please everyone at your table!
A Personal Story Behind My Italian Sausage Penne Casserole Journey
Growing up, family dinners were a sacred time filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, incredible food. My grandmother often made her famous penne casserole, and the aroma would fill our home, making it impossible to wait for dinner. This recipe is inspired by those cherished memories, and I’ve adapted it to create a dish that is just as comforting, yet easy to prepare. With every bite, I’m transported back to those warm family gatherings.
What Makes This Italian Sausage Penne Casserole Recipe Special?
This Italian Sausage Penne Casserole stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. The addition of fresh basil and garlic elevates the dish, providing an aromatic touch that enhances its appeal. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together around the dining table.
The Full Italian Sausage Penne Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed if needed
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- Olive oil for pan
- 2 24-oz jars marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of generously salted water until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Tip: Cook the pasta slightly under to prevent overcooking in the oven.
- Brown Sausage: In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, for about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce and fresh basil, scraping the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine: Transfer 3/4 of the meat sauce to the pot with the cooked pasta, mixing until well coated. Place the mixture in a 9×13 baking dish.
- Layer Ricotta: Spread ricotta over the pasta, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until the cheese melts. Uncover and broil on high for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also customize the cheese blend; adding provolone or fontina can give it a unique taste!
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, just cover it and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole? Yes! Substitute the sausage with your favorite plant-based protein or omit it entirely for a hearty veggie casserole.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Calories per Serving: 550
- Servings: 8
Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking pasta.
- Large Pan For sautéing sausage and sauce.
- 9x13 baking dish For baking the casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage Casings removed if needed
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 2 24-oz jars marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1.5 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of generously salted water until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Tip: Cook the pasta slightly under to prevent overcooking in the oven.
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, for about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and fresh basil, scraping the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Transfer 3/4 of the meat sauce to the pot with the cooked pasta, mixing until well coated. Place the mixture in a 9x13 baking dish.
- Spread ricotta over the pasta, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until the cheese melts. Uncover and broil on high for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!