Easy Italian Bake
Easy Italian Bake is a hearty and flavorful casserole made with layers of pasta, savory Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a cheesy blend of mozzarella and ricotta. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need an easy yet comforting Italian-inspired dish.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Skillet (for browning sausage)
- Mixing Bowls
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta penne, ziti, or rigatoni
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or hot
- 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole:
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sausage and marinara mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat with another layer of sauce, pasta, and ricotta, finishing with a final layer of sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Video
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the Italian sausage.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.