This Easy Cheesy Italian Sausage Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table. With tasty sausage, pasta, and gooey cheese, it’s hard to resist!
I love how it all bakes together in one dish—less mess for me! Plus, it’s perfect for those busy nights when I want something quick and delicious. Who’s with me on that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian sausage: I like using mild sausage, but spicy is great if you want some heat! For a lighter version, turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Pasta: Any pasta shape works, but I prefer penne for its sturdy texture that holds the sauce well. You can even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Ricotta cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based ricotta or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Marinara sauce: Store-bought is super convenient, but homemade sauce will add more flavor. You could also use any tomato sauce if marinara isn’t available.
How Can I Make Sure My Sausage Casserole Is Packed with Flavor?
Getting the sausage cooked right can really elevate the flavor. Start with medium heat and don’t rush the browning process—it helps build a rich taste.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant to lay down a solid flavor base.
- Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it brings everything together. Adjust to your taste!
- Mix well before transferring to the baking dish. You want all the flavors blended together.
Easy Cheesy Italian Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the casserole later on!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The smell is going to be amazing!
3. Cook the Sausage:
Now it’s time to add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, which will take around 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper!
4. Mix in the Pasta and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce, the cooked sausage mixture, and ricotta cheese. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well blended!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture in, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Add the Cheesy Top:
Now for the best part! Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to create a cheesy crust.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a bit golden on top. Yum!
8. Rest Before Serving:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set up a little bit for easier serving.
9. Garnish and Enjoy!
To finish, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor, if you like. Serve it warm and enjoy a cheesy, comforting meal!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole with your friends and family. It’s sure to become a favorite!
FAQs for Easy Cheesy Italian Sausage Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lighter option. Just season it well with Italian herbs to get that classic flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or a blended mixture of silken tofu for a dairy-free option. Both will still provide a creamy texture to the casserole!
