Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake with Baked Potato Slices: A Comforting Delight

Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake with Baked Potato Slices: A Comforting Delight

Introduction: Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our irresistible Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake with Baked Potato Slices. This hearty and flavorful dish combines savory sausage, al dente pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, all layered with tender baked potato slices. With every bite, you'll savor the comforting flavors and textures that make this bake a true crowd-pleaser. Join us as we guide you through the steps to create this delicious and satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
    • Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Brown the Sausage:

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess grease.

  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
    • Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  4. Layer the Bake:

    • Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    • Layer half of the cooked pasta on top of the sauce, followed by half of the browned sausage and half of the potato slices. Pour half of the remaining cheese sauce over the layers.
    • Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta, sausage, potato slices, and cheese sauce. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

  5. Bake to Perfection:

    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.

  6. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
    • Scoop generous portions onto plates and savor the delightful combination of cheesy pasta, flavorful sausage, and tender baked potato slices.

Conclusion: With our Cheesy Sausage Pasta Bake with Baked Potato Slices, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm both hearts and stomachs. The layers of flavorful sausage, al dente pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, all complemented by tender baked potato slices, come together to create a comforting and delicious dish. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this irresistible combination of flavors. Enjoy

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