Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake

Cheesy sausage pasta brings together rich tomato flavor savory sausage and a golden blanket of cheese in one easy skillet. This dish has saved so many weeknights for me when my family is hungry and pasta cravings are high. Everything cooks in one pan which means less mess and dinner on the table fast.

My kids always ask for seconds every time I make this. I love how it fits whatever is in my fridge and comes together so fast after a long day.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: gives rich flavor and hearty texture Choose a good brand with herbs and a little spice for best taste
• Onion: adds sweetness and depth Look for a firm onion with no soft spots
• Garlic: boosts the savoriness and aroma Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor
• Penne pasta: for its shape which captures sauce and cheese Go for bronze-cut if possible it grips sauce better
• Chicken broth: creates a savory liquid that seasons the pasta Use low sodium if you like more control
• Canned diced tomatoes: bring bright tang and body Choose tomatoes that look rich in color
• Mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly for that stretchy cheesy pull
• Parmesan cheese: deepens flavor and brings saltiness Use freshly grated for best results
• Dried Italian herbs: infuse a classic herby background Buy fresh or check for a strong scent in dried blends
• Salt and pepper: for finishing flavors
• Fresh spinach (optional): adds nutrition and color Completely optional but it wilts in beautifully
• Cherry tomatoes (optional): bring sweetness and pop in every bite Also optional but adds freshness

Instructions

Prep Ingredients:

Slice the sausage into rounds Dice the onion and mince the garlic Measure out pasta broth and remaining ingredients Keep everything close for smooth cooking

Brown the Sausage:

Place sausage slices in a wide skillet over medium-high heat Cook until each piece gets golden edges and some of the fat renders out This step adds deep flavor for the sauce

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add diced onion and minced garlic into the pan with sausage Stir and cook gently for about three to five minutes until onion is soft and the kitchen smells amazing This step unlocks sweetness in the aromatics

Simmer Pasta and Tomatoes:

Pour uncooked penne into the skillet along with chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes with juices Stir and push pasta under the liquid so it cooks evenly Bring everything to a boil then lower the heat Cover and simmer stirring a few times so pasta cooks through and the flavors mingle well This takes about fifteen minutes or until pasta feels just tender

Melt the Cheese:

Take off the lid Lower heat to low Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses all over Stir until cheese is melted and silky Add Italian herbs salt and pepper Taste and adjust seasoning as needed

Add Optional Veggies:

If using spinach or cherry tomatoes stir them gently into the hot pasta right before serving Spinach will wilt instantly and tomatoes soften slightly

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When I first tried making this I forgot to brown the sausage and the flavor just was not the same That caramelized edge is now something my sons look forward to You can let each person sprinkle extra parmesan on top for a special finish

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge The flavors get even better as they sit Just add a splash of broth or water before reheating to keep it creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Italian sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version Gluten free penne or rigatoni works just as well If you do not have mozzarella try provolone or fontina for a different cheesy pull

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the pan or pile into shallow bowls Sprinkle extra cheese and a crack of black pepper on top A simple green salad and rustic bread make it a full meal My youngest likes this with roasted broccoli on the side

Cultural Touch

This pasta dish is very American Italian inspired combining sausage cheese and pantry pasta for a one pan wonder It is not traditional but borrows from cozy Italian flavors that bring everyone to the table

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This cheesy sausage pasta is comfort food at its best The whole family will ask for it again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, provides savory flavor and pairs well with the cheesy pasta.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Penne is traditional, but rotini, rigatoni, or ziti hold up well and soak up the sauce beautifully.

→ How do I ensure the cheese melts smoothly?

Stir in the cheese off the heat, allowing residual warmth to melt it evenly for a creamy finish.

→ Can vegetables be added to the dish?

Yes, fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes add color and nutrition without overpowering the main flavors.

→ How can I adjust the seasoning?

Taste before serving and add salt, pepper, or extra dried herbs to suit your preference.