May be an image of food

Absolutely! Here’s a detailed, unique article about the Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake, complete with a step-by-step method that’s easy to follow and full of flavor.

Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake: A Comforting, Cheesy Delight

If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying dish that combines savory Italian sausage with gooey melted cheese and tender pasta, the Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake is your answer. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week, this casserole-style dish is flavorful, simple, and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a rich and delicious Italian Sausage & Cheese Bake, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
12 ounces (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it al dente, according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. This ensures your pasta holds its shape during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a bit of the fat in the pan for flavor.