Name: Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup baby spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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Introduction to Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake

Hey there, fellow busy bees! If you’re like me, you often find yourself juggling work, kids, and a seemingly endless list of to-dos. That’s why I’m excited to share my favorite go-to recipe: Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake. This dish brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy goodness, and delightful veggies, all baked to perfection.

It’s not just delicious; it’s a warm hug in a dish. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, it’ll put smiles on your family’s faces while saving you time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake

This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake is the ultimate weeknight warrior! It’s quick to prepare and comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.

The flavors are a cozy embrace, and trust me, they’ll make your kitchen smell like a charming Italian bistro. With every bite, you’ll feel comfort wash over you.

It’s ideal for busy evenings when you need something hearty and delicious that pleases even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting this delightful Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake. Here’s what you’ll need:

12 oz penne pasta: This shape traps the creamy sauce beautifully, but any pasta can work.
1 lb Italian sausage: Choose between mild or spicy. Turkey or chicken sausage can be a lighter alternative.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for aromatics that elevate any dish.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Fresh or canned, both add great flavor.
1 cup baby spinach: For a touch of freshness and color.
1 cup heavy cream: This makes it creamy! Light cream can be a substitute, but it won’t be as rich.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty goodness.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a lovely savory kick.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings everything together with a classic flavor profile.
Salt and pepper: Essentials for seasoning to taste.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and veggies.
Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but they add a lovely finish.

The exact quantities are available for printing at the bottom of this post, so don’t worry about memorizing it all at once!

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake

Now, let’s dive into making this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake. I promise, the steps are simple and enjoyable! With my tips, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for even cooking. An adequately heated oven ensures the cheese melts perfectly and everything bakes uniformly. No one wants a soggy center or burnt edges!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your penne pasta. Aim for al dente—this means it should be firm to the bite. Follow the package instructions to avoid mushy pasta. Overcooked pasta can turn soggy in the bake. When done, drain and set it aside while we prepare the sausage!

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want it browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it! Nobody needs that extra grease in our creamy dish.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step is where the magic happens, as the flavors deepen beautifully!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now for the fun part: combining everything! Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and baby spinach, then pour in the heavy cream. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed! You want that creamy consistency to envelop all the veggies and sausage perfectly.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Carefully transfer the pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, so it bakes uniformly. It’s essential to not overlook this step for perfect texture all over!

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Let’s talk cheese! Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly atop the pasta. The gooey mozzarella will melt beautifully, while the Parmesan adds that extra depth of flavor. You can never have too much cheese, right?

Step 8: Bake

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. Watch closely! When the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, it’s time to take it out. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving—it’ll be too hot to handle otherwise!

And there you have it! A wonderfully creamy and delicious Tuscan sausage pasta bake that’s sure to delight your family.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain texture.
Drain excess grease from the sausage to avoid a greasy bake.
Experiment with additional herbs like fresh basil or oregano for extra flavor.
Ensure even spreading of the pasta mixture in the baking dish for consistent cooking.
Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: For boiling the pasta. A Dutch oven works great too.
Skillet: Any large skillet to brown the sausage will do!
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal, but an equivalent size will work.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pans.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure ingredient accuracy.

Variations

Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or leave out the meat for a vegetarian delight.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne to enjoy this dish without the gluten.
Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
Green Salad: A fresh arugula or mixed green salad adds brightness.
Wine Pairing: A light red wine or sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.
Basil Garnish: Sprinkle extra fresh basil for a stunning presentation.

FAQs about Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake

As we dive into this delicious Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries to help you out!

Can I store leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What can I substitute for Italian sausage? You can use ground turkey or chicken, which are lighter options. Even veggie crumbles can work well for a meatless version.

How many servings does this make? One recipe yields about six generous servings, perfect for a family dinner!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing a dish like this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake. It’s not just a meal; it’s a chance to reconnect and create lasting memories. Each creamy bite is like a warm embrace, making even the busiest nights feel cozy and special.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe! I’d love to hear about your version—whether you added extra veggies, swapped proteins, or stirred in a splash of something special. Let’s create a community filled with shared culinary adventures!