Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake

When I need a comforting dinner that comes together quickly but feels extra special, cheesy sausage pasta always delivers. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese with an easy pasta base. It is satisfying yet simple enough for a weeknight.

The first time I made this, our power had just come back on after a long outage. Getting dinner on the table fast was a must, and this pasta wowed my family. Now we make it whenever we need a guaranteed happy meal.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Gives a perfect bite and holds onto the sauce beautifully. Look for bronze-cut pasta for a chewy texture
• Olive oil: For sauteing and bringing out the flavor of sausage. Choose extra virgin if possible
• Italian sausage: Brings bold flavor and a bit of spice. Fresh sausage from the meat counter yields the best taste
• Diced onion: Gives sweetness and depth. Choose yellow onions for mellow flavor
• Garlic: Amps up the savory taste. Fresh cloves add so much more zing than jarred
• Diced tomatoes: With their juice give the sauce body and a touch of tang. Fire-roasted tomatoes are a bonus for smokiness
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and silky. Use fresh cream for the smoothest texture
• Italian seasoning: For classic herby notes. Blend your own with dried basil oregano and thyme if you have them
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into perfect gooeyness. Use whole milk mozzarella for best stretch
• Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty savory finish. Grate fresh Parmesan if you can
• Salt and black pepper: Balance and sharpen flavors. Freshly cracked pepper adds an extra kick
• Fresh basil: Brings a pop of green and freshness on top. Use unwilted leaves for the prettiest garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and stir frequently. Cook until just al dente (about nine to eleven minutes). Drain thoroughly and set aside. Do not overcook, as the pasta will keep cooking in the sauce.

Brown the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Saute for five to seven minutes until deeply browned and almost crispy. Drain any excess fat if it gets too greasy, the sausage should be well browned for best flavor.

Build the Aromatics:

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Stir and cook for three to four minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent. Keep stirring often to avoid burning the garlic.

Simmer the Sauce:

Pour in the diced tomatoes with all their juices. Add heavy cream and sprinkle in Italian seasoning. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce starts to thicken and looks glossy.

Combine and Melt:

Lower heat to the lowest setting. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine. Sprinkle in mozzarella cheese and half the Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and every bit of pasta is coated and stretchy.

Season and Finish:

Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Remove from the heat so the cheese stays melty rather than too thick.

Garnish and Serve:

Turn the pasta into serving bowls and scatter torn basil leaves on top for color and aroma. Serve right away while steaming hot for the ultimate cozy bite.

My favorite ingredient here has to be Italian sausage. I always taste one little browned bit straight from the skillet because the flavor is irresistible. The night I first made this for my family they kept sneaking bites straight from the pan before it hit the table.

Storage Tips

This pasta keeps well in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy. If you want it extra fresh add a little more cheese when reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap penne for any short pasta like rigatoni or ziti. If you prefer a lighter dish use half and half instead of heavy cream. For those who like it spicy hot Italian sausage turns up the heat while turkey sausage works for a lighter flavor. Lactose free cream and cheese also work in this dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy sausage pasta with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. A side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy tomato sauce. For family parties or potlucks serve out of a big dish garnished with more basil and Parmesan.

Cultural Roots

Cheesy sausage pasta brings together popular Italian American flavors. The combination of sausage tomato cheese and pasta is found in many regions of Italy though the heavy cream makes this version extra comforting in the American style. It is a classic case of Italian traditions getting a cozy twist for the modern dinner table.

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring add a handful of peas or baby spinach for color. During fall try swapping sausage for crumbled cooked pumpkin or butternut squash. Top with roasted cherry tomatoes for a late summer spin.

Success Stories

This recipe has become a regular request for birthdays and sleepovers in our house. One friend even said it rivalled her favorite restaurant pasta. I once packed leftovers for my husband’s work lunch and he texted me all afternoon about how happy it made him.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make this ahead for busy nights assemble the pasta and sauce up to the cheese step. Cool completely and store tightly wrapped in a freezer safe dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm in the oven at 350 degrees with extra cheese sprinkled on top.

Enjoy every forkful of this creamy, cheesy sausage pasta. It might just become your next go-to dinner recipe for busy nights.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or any similar short pasta you have on hand.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can make the dish up to a day ahead and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.

→ What other cheeses work well in this dish?

Try provolone, fontina, or gouda for a different cheese profile while maintaining creaminess.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.