Pin this A hearty, family-friendly pasta bake loaded with savory sausage, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce—perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget.
This dish quickly became a favorite in my household because it's both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) penne or fusilli pasta
- Sausage: 500 g (1.1 lb) budget pork sausages (about 6), casings removed
- Vegetables & Sauce: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs), 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional), 1 tbsp olive oil, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cheese: 200 g (2 cups) grated mozzarella cheese, 80 g (3/4 cup) grated cheddar cheese
- Garnish (optional): Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Step 4:
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Add dried herbs, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6:
- Combine the cooked pasta and sausage sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Pin this Sharing this pasta bake at family dinners always brings smiles and hearty appetites.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, mixing bowl, baking dish (approx 22 x 33 cm/9 x 13 in), wooden spoon, chefs knife
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (pasta), dairy (cheese), and may contain eggs (depending on pasta and sausage used). Sausages may contain other allergens—check labels for soy, wheat, or other additives.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 565, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 28 g per serving
Pin this This budget-friendly pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights and leftovers reheat beautifully the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for this bake?
Penne or fusilli hold the sauce well and create a perfect texture when baked.
- → Can I use turkey sausages instead of pork?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausages provide a leaner alternative without altering the overall flavor significantly.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chili flakes to the sauce according to your preferred heat level.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
You can assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking to save time.
- → What pairs well as a side with this pasta?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich and savory flavors nicely.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Adding chopped bell peppers or spinach boosts nutrition and adds freshness to the bake.