Marinara Italian Sausage Penne Bake

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, cook sausage with olive oil over medium heat until browned; remove and drain on paper towels.
4. 4 In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
5. 5 Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Combine cooked penne and sausage in a greased baking dish.
7. 7 Pour sauce over the pasta mixture and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is melted.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add cooked ground beef for extra heartiness.
• Top with fresh basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Substitutions

• Substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a hoppy IPA.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, use homemade marinara sauce.
• Customize with your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

FAQ