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Best Italian Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s packed with Italian flavors like marinara sauce, hearty pasta, and a blend of cheeses. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, bringing together all the goodness of a classic Italian meal in one dish. With layers of pasta, meat, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Ingredients
Instructions
Cook Notes
Variations
Serving Suggestions
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage marinara mixture. Stir in ricotta cheese until evenly distributed. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and finish with the remaining cheeses.
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