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A close-up view of the baked Italian sausage and pasta casserole, highlighting the melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese topping.

Italian Sausage Pasta Bake (The Ultimate Cheesy Recipe)

This Italian Sausage Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food! A hearty and cheesy casserole with savory sausage, marinara, and a trio of cheeses, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage hot or mild, casings removed
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound penne pasta or other tubular pasta
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes undrained
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • 1 Large pot

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Drain excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, the egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the sausage sauce.
  6. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Dollop the ricotta mixture over the top. Cover with the remaining pasta mixture.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted. Broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden-brown top. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best results, use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Tip 2: Don't overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Tip 3: Let the pasta bake rest before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.