Baked Penne | Cheesy Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole is just what you need for a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to make. This dish features medium pasta shells enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, harmoniously combined with savory Italian sausage and topped with gooey mozzarella, creating layers of deliciousness that melt in your mouth. Each bite reveals the depth of flavors – from the sweetness of crushed tomatoes meeting the seasoned sausage to the creamy surprise of cottage cheese that rounds it all out beautifully.
I first stumbled upon this delightful casserole during a cozy family dinner at a friend’s house. The aroma wafting from the oven had us gathering in the kitchen, eyes wide with anticipation. This baked pasta dish effortlessly brings the comfort of home into your kitchen, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and undeniably crowd-pleasing, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time under an hour, this dish fits seamlessly into any busy schedule.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage with flavorful spices and rich tomatoes creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Layered with creamy cheese and bubbly sauce, this casserole not only tastes great but also makes a stunning presentation at the dinner table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as leftovers for lunch, it’s versatile and enjoyable at any time.
- Diet-Friendly Options: With simple tweaks, this dish can easily be transformed into a gluten-free or vegetarian meal, accommodating various dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz medium pasta shells: These pasta shells hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite full of flavor. You can substitute with penne or rigatoni if desired.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil: A touch of oil enhances flavor and prevents sticking. Feel free to use cooking oil of your choice.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant punch to the sauce, enriching its flavor profile.
- ½ cup shallots, minced (or onions): Shallots offer a sweeter flavor than standard onions, but yellow or white onions can work just as well.
- 12 oz Italian sausage, removed from casing: This adds hearty, meaty richness to the dish. Look for sweet or spicy varieties depending on your taste.
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes: Provides the essential base for a rich sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice if you want a sweeter flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: This intensifies the tomato flavor in the sauce, contributing to a beautifully robust taste.
- 1 ½ tablespoon granulated sugar: A pinch of sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a more well-rounded sauce.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning is crucial. Adjust to your taste preference.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds depth to the sauce; freshly ground offers the best flavor.
- Pinch red pepper flakes, optional: For a slight kick, but may be omitted if you prefer mild flavors.
- ¾ cup low-fat (2%) cottage cheese, small curds: This creamy addition makes the casserole luscious without the heaviness of ricotta.
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes: These cheese cubes melt beautifully throughout the dish, enhancing texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Topping the casserole with shredded cheese creates a deliciously crispy, golden layer.
- Chopped Italian parsley, for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Penne | Cheesy Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole
Cook pasta: Prepare 8 oz medium pasta shells to al dente according to package directions, usually around 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool while you make the sauce.
Make sauce: In a medium pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and shallots, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until both are softened and fragrant. Next, add the 12 oz Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as you cook. Continue cooking until nicely browned, then drain any excess fat from the pot.
Simmer: Stir in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Allow the sauce to cool for 15 minutes.
Assemble: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooled sauce, ¾ cup cottage cheese, and cubed mozzarella. Toss everything together until well blended, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Transfer this mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, and top it with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For that perfect golden top, switch to broil for an additional 30-45 seconds, but watch closely to prevent burning. Once done, let it stand for 5-8 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped Italian parsley if desired.
Storing & Reheating
To store any leftover Baked Penne | Cheesy Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours but for longer storage, keep refrigerating for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat portions in the microwave; just ensure you have a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist so it doesn’t dry out.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for al dente for the best texture in this casserole.
- For extra creaminess, allow your cottage cheese to come to room temperature before mixing it in.
- Consider adding other cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you want a more complex flavor, let the sauce simmer longer, and it becomes richer.
- To make ahead, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
This Baked Penne | Cheesy Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole is all about the warmth of home cooking, simplicity, and indulgent flavors. It’s an ideal solution for those who seek both convenience and satisfaction from their meals. Adjust it to your preferences, and don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients. Enjoy the delightful experience of serving up this rich dish, and don’t forget to relish those heartfelt moments around the table!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. Add extra vegetables or legumes for protein and substance.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
This baked penne will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before packing it into a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
How can I enhance the flavors of my sauce?
Experimenting with herbs is an excellent way to elevate the flavor of your sauce. Fresh basil, oregano, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can transform it into something special.
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Recipe Card
Baked Penne | Cheesy Oven-Baked Pasta Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Baked Penne is a delightful mix of pasta, Italian sausage, and cheese baked to perfection. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of flavors and the cheesy topping make it irresistible!
Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 teaspoon olive oil, or cooking oil of choice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup shallots, (or onions) minced
- 12 oz italian sausage, removed from casing
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
- pinch red pepper flakes, optional
- ¾ cup low fat (2%) cottage cheese, small curds
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- chopped italian parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente, drain, and let cool.
- In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, add minced garlic and shallots, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, then cool for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooled sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella cubes. Toss everything well, then transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese has melted. Broil for 30-45 seconds to brown the top. Let the dish stand for 5-8 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
Substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
