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Italian Sausage Penne Casserole

Italian Sausage Penne Casserole for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This Italian Sausage Penne Casserole is a comforting meal, perfect for weeknight dinners, brimming with flavors and with customizable ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 lb Italian Sausage Consider substituting with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta You can use any short pasta.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Mixing in ricotta or Parmesan can enhance the depth.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots make a milder alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder serves as a good substitute.
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Crushed tomatoes can replace for smoother sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Basil Essential for capturing the Italian flavor profile.
  • 1 tbsp Oregano Feel free to adjust quantities.
  • to taste Salt Using kosher salt delivers the best results.
  • to taste Pepper Freshly ground pepper preferred.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Extra Cheese Top with more mozzarella or a mix of cheeses.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs For a delightful crunch.

Equipment

  • 3-quart casserole dish
  • Large Skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a casserole dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until browned.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic in the remaining grease for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper and cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Return sausage to skillet, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  6. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  7. Combine cooked pasta with the sausage mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  8. Layer half the mixture in the casserole dish, add mozzarella, and repeat.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, removing foil in the last 5 minutes.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients and ensure pasta is cooked al dente for best results. Add vegetables for extra nutrition and color.

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