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
Scale
- 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