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.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Let the Best Italian Bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Cook Notes
- Pasta Choice: Penne or rigatoni work best for this recipe, as their shape helps hold the sauce and cheese.
- Cheese: Freshly shredding the mozzarella and Parmesan will result in a smoother, creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Sausage: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage.
Variations
1. Vegetarian Italian Bake
Replace the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a vegetarian version that’s just as hearty and flavorful.
2. Spicy Italian Bake
For an extra kick, use spicy Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes to taste.
3. Four Cheese Italian Bake
Add 1 cup shredded provolone or fontina cheese to the mix for an extra cheesy bake with a variety of flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Wine: Enjoy with a glass of Chianti or another red wine that complements the rich, tomato-based sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Best Italian Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the bake up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Best Italian Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Best Italian Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Best Italian Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole that brings all the best Italian flavors into one easy dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta bake is sure to satisfy everyone with its layers of hearty sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy at home!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
