Description

Indulge in this comforting Cheesy Sausage Penne Bake, featuring al dente penne pasta smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and mozzarella, and topped with flavorful browned smoked sausage. This baked pasta dish offers a perfect blend of gooey cheese, savory sausage, and subtle garlic and onion seasonings, all finished with a golden bubbly crust and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a delightful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz penne pasta

Sausage

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté the Sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine & Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, then arrange the browned sausage slices on top. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese over the top for a cheesier crust.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for a delicious and comforting meal.

Notes

For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
Feel free to substitute smoked sausage with Italian sausage or chorizo for varied flavor profiles.
To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.