Hearty Tomato Sausage Pasta Bake: A Comforting Delight for Pasta Lovers

Hearty Tomato Sausage Pasta Bake: A Comforting Delight for Pasta Lovers

Introduction: Indulge in the comforting embrace of our Tomato Sausage Pasta Bake, a mouthwatering dish that combines flavorful sausage with rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. In this blog post, we invite you to discover the delightful flavors and textures of this hearty pasta bake. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to satisfy and leave everyone craving more. Join us as we guide you through creating a comforting pasta bake that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces penne pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pasta:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Sausage and Onion:

    • In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
    • Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

    • To the skillet with the sausage and onion, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
    • Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
    • Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

  4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
    • Stir gently to ensure that the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

  5. Assemble the Pasta Bake:

    • Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a greased baking dish.
    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

  6. Bake and Serve:

    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is heated through.
    • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
    • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a touch of freshness and added visual appeal.

Conclusion: With our Tomato Sausage Pasta Bake, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese. This hearty pasta bake is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you yearning for seconds. So, preheat your oven, gather the ingredients, and let the aromas of this delicious pasta bake fill your kitchen. Embrace the comfort and warmth of this classic dish, and enjoy the delightful flavors that are sure to make it a favorite in your household.

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