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
Scale
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
