Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
This Italian Sausage Penne Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients into a satisfying meal. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in, this casserole delivers both comfort and taste. With its cheesy goodness and savory sausage, it’s an easy favorite that will please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner experience.
- Feeding a Crowd: With 8 servings, this casserole is great for feeding family or friends without much hassle.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Italian sausage penne casserole.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Casserole dish (3 quart)
- Cooking utensils (spatula, wooden spoon)
- Measuring spoons
- Pot for boiling pasta
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning the sausage and sautéing vegetables evenly.
- Casserole dish: Provides ample space for layering ingredients while baking.
- Cooking utensils: Essential for mixing and ensuring even cooking without scratching your pans.
Ingredients
This Italian sausage penne casserole is rich, hearty, and so easy to make. It’s the perfect meal for you because it’s so easy and for them because it’s so good!
Pasta
- 16 oz box Penne pasta
Meat
- 2 lb Hot Italian Sausage (can use sweet or mild Italian)
Cheese
- 24 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
Canned Goods
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
Herbs & Spices
- 1½ tsp basil
- 1½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 3-quart casserole dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Crumble the sausage as it cooks until fully browned.
2. Drain any excess grease from the sausage, but reserve 2 tablespoons for later use.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet:
1. Add back the reserved grease.
2. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until the onions become translucent.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add diced tomatoes to the skillet along with:
– Basil,
– Oregano,
– Salt,
– Pepper.
Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Simmer with Sausage
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Bring everything to a boil then cover and simmer on low heat for approximately 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Prepare Pasta
While the sauce simmers:
1. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain, rinse under cold water, and return it to the pot.
Step 7: Mix Everything Together
Combine the sausage mixture with the cooked pasta in the pot.
1. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
Step 8: Layer in Casserole Dish
Place half of the meat-pasta mixture into your prepared casserole dish.
1. Sprinkle with some mozzarella cheese.
2. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top followed by more cheese.
Step 9: Bake
Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven until cheese is bubbly and heated through, approximately 30 minutes. If desired, remove foil in the last few minutes to brown the cheese slightly.
Step 10: Serve
Enjoy your Italian sausage penne casserole warm! Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for an excellent meal that everyone will love.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Serving Italian sausage penne casserole is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some great serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this hearty dish.
With Fresh Salad
- A light, mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch. Toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a delightful contrast.
Garlic Bread on the Side
- Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness of the casserole. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables can add both color and nutrition to your plate. Consider zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only adds flavor but also brings a pop of color to your dish.
Add Parmesan Cheese
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving can elevate the flavors even more, providing an extra layer of richness.
Serve with Wine
- Pairing your casserole with a nice red wine like Chianti can enhance the overall meal experience. Choose something fruity but balanced for the best match.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
To make your Italian sausage penne casserole truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
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Use quality sausage: Selecting high-quality Italian sausage will significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole. Opt for fresh or homemade if possible.
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Don’t skip the cheese: Using a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses like ricotta or Parmesan can add depth and creaminess to your dish.
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Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook your penne pasta just until al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy.
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Layer properly: When assembling the casserole, layer it correctly to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients throughout the dish.
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Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking will help it set and make serving easier.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of basil and oregano according to your taste preference. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick!
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
Choosing side dishes that complement your Italian sausage penne casserole can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options you might consider:
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing topped with croutons and Parmesan cheese.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the casserole.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
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Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses adds variety and flavor before the main course.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer another comforting side option that pairs well with rich dishes.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese make for an excellent finger food alongside your casserole.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled with olive oil provide a healthy crunch that complements any pasta dish beautifully.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil makes for an inviting starter before diving into the main meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian sausage penne casserole can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: Using a pasta shape that doesn’t hold sauce well can lead to a dry dish. Stick with penne or similar shapes.
- Overcooking the sausage: Cooking the sausage too long can make it tough. Cook until just browned and then add it back later in the process.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your dish enough can leave it bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs!
- Not following cooking times: Each step has specific timings for a reason. Follow them closely to get the best results.
- Not letting it cool before storing: Placing hot casserole directly into the fridge can create condensation. Let it cool before storing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Italian sausage penne casserole:
How do I make my Italian Sausage Penne Casserole spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage to increase the spice level in your casserole.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone cheese along with mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
How do I ensure my casserole doesn’t dry out?
Adding enough sauce and covering it while baking helps retain moisture. Try not to overbake as well.
What should I serve with Italian Sausage Penne Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage penne casserole is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion! Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Italian Sausage Penne Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Italian Sausage Penne Casserole, a hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, gooey mozzarella cheese, and aromatic spices, this casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and a simple assembly process, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Make it ahead and bake when you’re ready to serve, ensuring you’ll impress your guests with this crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 16 oz penne pasta
- 2 lb hot Italian sausage
- 24 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- Basil and oregano for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a casserole dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet until translucent.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; combine with the sausage mixture and half the cheese.
- Layer the mixture in the casserole dish with remaining cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (about 313g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
