Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage is a quintessential comfort food that brings the heartwarming flavors of Italy to your dining table. This hearty dish marries the rich robustness of ground Italian sausage with velvety mozzarella cheese and perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a sublime synergy of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish at any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual brunch with friends, this cheesy pasta dish effortlessly becomes the star of the show, offering a balance of savory notes from the sausage and creamy undertones from the cheese. The addition of Italian seasoning and a robust tomato sauce rounds out the dish, giving it depth and a delightful aroma that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients about Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
List of Ingredients with Measurements
To recreate this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 16 oz penne pasta (or any tubular pasta)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 16 oz ground Italian sausage
- 28 oz canned tomato sauce (such as Hunt’s)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
While the ingredients listed above provide optimal flavor, you can still enjoy a delectable meal with these substitutions:
- Pasta: Use rigatoni or ziti if penne is unavailable.
- Sausage: For a different flavor profile, try spicy Italian sausage or turkey sausage.
- Cheese: Substitute with cheddar or provolone for varying taste.
- Tomato Sauce: Use a marinara sauce for added spices and herbs.
How to Make Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage Directions
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, adding the pasta, and cooking it for about 10-12 minutes until it achieves an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Sausage Mixture
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. The onions serve as a flavorful base for the sausage and sauce.
Step 3: Browning the Sausage
Introduce the ground Italian sausage to the pot with the onions. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Brown the sausage for 5-10 minutes, ensuring that it is cooked through and has developed a nice golden color, which adds depth to the dish.
Step 4: Creating the Sauce
Pour in the canned tomato sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture well so that all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Combining Ingredients
Once the sauce has simmered and the pasta is drained, return the pasta to the pot you cooked it in. Add the mozzarella cheese, then pour the sausage and sauce mixture over the pasta. Stir everything together, ensuring the cheese melts evenly and coats the pasta and sausage in a luxurious layer of cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage is best served hot, straight from the pot. To enhance its rustic charm, serve it in a large, shallow dish or bowl, allowing family members and guests to help themselves to generous portions. The dish’s colorful presentation, with glistening cheese and bright tomato sauce, makes it a visually appealing centerpiece.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
To complement this pasta dish, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. Garlic bread or focaccia would also make an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the sausage’s rich flavors.
How to Store Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
Proper Storage Methods
To store leftovers, transfer the Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing the container, preventing condensation and keeping the pasta fresh.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
For reheating, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If freezing, ensure the dish is in a freezer-safe container, and consume within 1-2 months for optimal quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Underseasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, particularly before serving.
- Greasy Sauce: Drain some fat from the sausage if it releases too much, preventing an overly greasy sauce.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mozzarella and high-quality sausage enhances the overall flavor.
- Simmer Time: Allowing ample simmer time for the sauce develops deeper, more complex flavors.
- Layered Cheese: Consider layering some cheese between layers of pasta and sauce for a gooey, delicious surprise.
Variation of Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
- Creamy Variation: Add a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Veggie Addition: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or oregano can provide a fresh herbaceous note to enhance the dish’s flavors.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with a meatless alternative or increase the veggies for a plant-based twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
- Lower Fat: Opt for turkey sausage and low-fat mozzarella to reduce the dish’s fat content.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your dish seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water or additional tomato sauce to loosen it. For issues with blandness, increase the seasoning gradually and taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, Cheesy Penne Pasta with Sausage can be made a day in advance. Prepare the dish up to the combining step, then store it covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
For onions, shallots or leeks offer a milder taste. Jarred sauce can replace canned tomato sauce in a pinch, and for a cheesy alternative, you might try using a nut-based cheese spread if catering to dairy-free diets.
