Marinara Italian Sausage Shell Pasta Bake

• 12 oz pasta shells, cooked
• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for topping

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, Italian sausage, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
3. 3 Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. 4 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. 5 Mix breadcrumbs with remaining Parmesan and sprinkle over the top.
6. 6 Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. 7 Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• baking sheet (optional)

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Substitute half the mozzarella with ricotta for a creamier texture.

Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or chicken in place of Italian sausage for a leaner option.
• If breadcrumbs are unavailable, use crushed crackers or additional pasta for topping.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli
• Caesar salad

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté garlic in olive oil before mixing with pasta.
• This dish tastes even better the next day!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.

FAQ