Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step builds a deep, savory base for your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes. Then, stir the cooked sausage back into the sauce. Your sauce should be thick, aromatic, and ready to coat the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the sausage-tomato sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese to create creamy pockets of flavor throughout the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. For an extra crusty top, you can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove the Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake

1. Mix sausage types: Try half spicy and half mild Italian sausage for a balanced flavor.
2. Cheese variety: Add provolone or fontina for extra creaminess.
3. Vegetable boost: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the onions for a veggie-packed version.
4. Make ahead: Assemble the bake a day in advance and refrigerate; bake it fresh when needed.

This Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake is comfort food at its finest—cheesy, hearty, and packed with Italian flavors. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

If you want, I can also make a shortcut 30-minute version of this recipe that’s just as cheesy and delicious but quicker to make. It’s perfect for busy evenings. Do you want me to do that?