If you are craving a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce, studded with smoky, browned sausage slices, then baked until bubbly and golden on top. It’s an irresistible combination of gooey, cheesy goodness and hearty sausage flavor that comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners when you want something satisfying and fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, ensuring every forkful is a delight.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and bits of sausage, providing the ideal bite every time.
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced: Adds a rich, smoky depth and savory punch that elevates the entire dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, it melts smoothly to create that irresistible cheesy base.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a lovely stretch and mild flavor to complement the cheddar.
- 2 tbsp butter: The foundation of the roux, lending richness and helping to thicken the sauce.
- 2 tbsp flour: Works as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce, giving it that velvety consistency.
- 2 cups milk: The liquid base that transforms the roux into a creamy sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Offers a subtle, aromatic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic, adding depth and a slight sweetness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of brightness for the final touch.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your penne pasta in salted water until it reaches al dente perfection—that lovely balance where it’s tender but still has a slight bite. This texture is vital because the pasta will continue to cook later in the oven, and you want to avoid it turning mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and brown your sliced smoked sausage. This step not only cooks the sausage but caramelizes its edges, intensifying its smoky, savory flavor. Once browned on both sides, remove from heat and set aside—you’ll be adding it back in soon.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat to create a rich base. Whisk in the flour, cooking it for about one minute to get rid of the raw taste—this is your roux, key to thickening the sauce. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, cooking until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy texture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to build layers of savory flavor.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and silky. This smooth cheese sauce is what ties the entire dish together with luscious creaminess and gooey goodness.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine the cooked pasta with the cheesy sauce, mixing gently so every piece gets coated. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish, then arrange the browned sausage slices on top. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some additional cheese over everything. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling invitingly.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant burst of green that brightens the rich, cheesy landscape of this dish. It’s a simple flourish that makes your presentation pop and introduces a refreshing hint of herbal flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty penne bake pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, like a tangy arugula and cherry tomato mix, which contrast the richness perfectly. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or green beans also complement the dish by adding texture and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family style meal, serve the bake straight from the dish while everyone helps themselves. If entertaining, consider individual ramekins for personal portions with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. Either way, the warm, cheesy aroma makes it irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You’ll find the flavors meld even more, making reheated portions just as delicious.
Freezing
This penne bake freezes exceptionally well if you want to prepare in advance. Freeze in a sealed container either before or after baking. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for even reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave individual portions with a cover to retain moisture. Add a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry, to revive the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a wonderful smoky flavor, you can substitute with Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even chorizo to tailor the taste to your liking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and consider adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for texture and flavor, or use plant-based sausage alternatives to keep that savory element.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely. Penne is ideal for holding sauce, but you can swap in rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. Just adjust cooking times if needed so the pasta remains al dente.
What cheese works best for the sauce?
A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the best balance of flavor and meltiness. However, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Its creamy, cheesy sauce paired with smoky sausage and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate—you’ll be bookmarking this recipe for every cozy night in.
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Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake featuring al dente penne pasta, smoky browned sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and mozzarella. Baked to bubbly golden perfection, this hearty casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sausage
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until it is al dente, then drain thoroughly to stop the cooking process.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned on both sides, which enhances flavor and texture. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the thickened sauce until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy cheese sauce.
- Combine & Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, arrange the browned sausage slices on top, and optionally sprinkle with extra cheese.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh flavor and color contrast.
Notes
- Use smoked sausage for best flavor; kielbasa or andouille work well.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- For a crispier top, broil the baked dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it lighter, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
