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Get ready to dive into a dish that’s the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and downright delicious! This Creamy Sausage Pasta Bake with Bell Peppers is not just a feast for the eyes but also an incredibly satisfying meal that comes together in a snap. Ideal for a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is packed with flavor and comfort, making it a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy sausage pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty ingredients into one irresistible dish. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
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- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, it’s ready in under an hour.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of sausage, creamy sauce, and bell peppers creates a symphony of flavors.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one baking dish.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite veggies or pasta types.
- Kid-Friendly: Creamy and cheesy, it’s sure to please even picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Sausage Pasta Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the heavy cream, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients well.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
For a creamy pasta bake that truly shines, consider these tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy or chicken sausage.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Easy Variations
- Substitute the penne pasta with rotini or fusilli for a fun twist.
- Add spinach or kale for an extra serving of greens.
- Use a blend of different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for added flavor.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing sausage with plant-based alternatives.
What to Serve With It
This creamy sausage pasta bake pairs wonderfully with:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for a satisfying crunch.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- A glass of red wine for the adults!
Storage and Reheating
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Leftover creamy sausage pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Recipe Card
Recipe Name: Creamy Sausage Pasta Bake with Bell Peppers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield/Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield/Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the heavy cream, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients well.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Notes: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
