Description
A warm and comforting baked penne with sausage pasta and cheese made with tender penne, rich beef sausage, smooth marinara, and melty cheeses. This dish delivers hearty flavor, balanced seasoning, and a satisfying texture that makes it a favorite for simple dinners and easy gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pound uncooked penne pasta
16 ounces beef sausage such as Midamar Beef Italian Sausage or Al Safa Beef Sausage
Half medium onion chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
1 jar marinara such as Rao’s Sensitive Marinara or Brooklyn Delhi Tomato Curry Ketchup Marinara
Half teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
1.5 cups shredded cheese such as Tillamook Shredded Mozzarella or Sargento Mozzarella
1 cup finely grated cheese such as Cabot Parmesan or Tillamook Hard Cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat oven to 375 F and position rack in the upper third.
Boil salted water and cook penne slightly under the suggested time, then transfer to a baking dish.
Brown beef sausage with onion in a skillet until well cooked, then add garlic.
Stir in marinara and crushed red pepper and warm gently.
Pour mixture over pasta and season.
Top with mozzarella and grated cheese, bake until melted, then broil briefly until lightly golden.
Notes
Penne, ziti, or rigatoni all work for this dish.
Choose mild or spicy beef sausage depending on flavor preference.
Add cooked vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach if desired.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake slightly longer when cooking from cold.
Reheat in the oven with a spoon of marinara or broth to keep moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American