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Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake

This cheesy sausage pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: baked sausage pasta, Cheesy sausage pasta bake, easy sausage pasta bake
Servings: 8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage mild or hot, casings removed
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese freshly grated preferred
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil and brown the sausage. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute more.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes. Add cream and return sausage to the pan. Simmer 5 more minutes.
  • Combine pasta and sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.
  • Layer half the pasta in the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheeses.
  • Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with basil and serve warm.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just shy of al dente—it will finish baking in the oven.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture.
  • Make ahead by assembling fully and refrigerating unbaked for up to 24 hours.
  • Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 660
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 38g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 49g