Get ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! Our Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake combines tender tubular pasta, savory Italian sausage, rich cream cheese, and a flavorful tomato-basil sauce for a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy night in, this hearty pasta bake is the perfect choice. So let’s dive into the kitchen and discover how to create this irresistible comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz tubular pasta, like penne, ziti, or rigatoni
- 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 (24 oz) jar tomato-basil pasta sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tubular pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the browned sausage and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the tomato-basil pasta sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices, stirring to combine.
- Add Creamy Elements: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), adjusting to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the Italian sausage and opt for meatless alternatives such as Beyond Meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version of this pasta bake.
- Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value of the dish by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce mixture.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Parmesan, cheddar, or fontina for added flavor and richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta in this recipe. Rotini, fusilli, or farfalle would all work well.
Q: Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover pasta bake can be frozen for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? A: While canned tomatoes provide convenience and consistency, you can certainly use fresh tomatoes in this recipe. Simply chop them and add them to the skillet along with the sausage and garlic, cooking until they break down and release their juices.
Q: What can I serve with Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake? A: This pasta bake pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make a keto-friendly version of this pasta bake, substitute the tubular pasta with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use a low-carb tomato sauce and omit the diced tomatoes to reduce the carb content. Replace the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
- Low-Carb Variation: Similarly, use low-carb pasta alternatives and opt for a tomato sauce with reduced sugar or no added sugar. Be mindful of the carb content of the other ingredients and adjust as needed to fit your dietary preferences.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake is a creamy and indulgent dish that’s perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings. With its flavorful combination of Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner or shared with loved ones at a gathering, this pasta bake is a deliciously comforting choice. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of cheesy goodness with Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake tonight!
Savor the creamy richness and savory flavors of Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake—a dish that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s a recipe that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness!
With detailed instructions, FAQs, and variations, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering Cream Cheese and Sausage Pasta Bake! Let me know if you need further assistance or if there’s anything else I can assist you with!
