If you are craving a cozy, mouthwatering dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture, look no further than this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe. This dish brings together tender penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and melted cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an irresistible Italian-American classic that easily becomes a family favorite, perfect for any night you want a fuss-free but seriously delicious dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, working harmoniously to create layers of flavor, creamy richness, and beautiful color. From the hearty sausage to the fresh basil, each element is simple but essential to making your pasta bake truly memorable.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce and crispy baked cheese layers.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage evenly without sticking.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings savory, spicy depth that’s key for authentic Tuscan flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle hint of heat to keep things exciting.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Adds sweet-tart bursts that contrast the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Brings a fresh, tender leafy texture and vibrant green color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The luxurious base for the silky sauce that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the cream slightly and adds savory depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stringy powerhouse that makes every forkful heavenly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packed with umami, it enriches the sauce with sharp, nutty notes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors into balance.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: A fresh herb that crowns the dish with bright, peppery freshness just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until it reaches al dente, which means the pasta should be tender yet still have a slight bite. This texture is vital because the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rich sauce that will bring the dish together.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage with the casings removed, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it is browned all over and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the savory base flavor and ensures a satisfying meaty texture in every bite.
Step 3: Build the Flavor with Garlic and Spices
Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. The garlic releases its aromatic oils, while the subtle heat from the red pepper flakes amps up the complexity without overwhelming the dish.
Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
Mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes for those sweet, tangy bursts and then add the baby spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts down, softening just enough so it blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce you’re about to make.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese, letting the sauce thicken slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. This rich, velvety sauce is what makes this pasta bake so decadently delicious and comforting.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Bake
Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce until well coated. Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly on top. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and beautifully golden.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil chopped right before serving is an absolute must. It adds a burst of color and a fragrant herbal lift that balances the creamy richness. Feel free to sprinkle extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also make excellent companions to mop up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family-style dinner, serve the pasta bake straight from a rustic cast iron skillet for a charming presentation. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins and bake for personalized servings that feel extra special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It remains delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this dish freezes beautifully. Place the unbaked pasta with sauce in a freezer-safe container or baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To maintain that cheesy, bubbly top, reheating under the oven broiler for a few minutes at the end is a winning tip. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this bake?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce and textures, rigatoni, ziti, or even penne rigate are great substitutes. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant to create a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The level of heat is moderate thanks to the red pepper flakes, which provide a gentle kick. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Adding a tablespoon of flour can help thicken it if needed.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the regular penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta brand. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to enjoy without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe is pure comfort food magic wrapped in every cheesy, savory bite. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day and has all the flavors to bring loved ones together around the table. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a go-to favorite in your home, perfect for sharing and savoring any time you want to create a special dinner with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
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Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dinner option featuring penne pasta tossed in a rich sauce with Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. This hearty dish delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Proteins
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Cheeses and Seasonings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F to prepare it for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces until fully browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute to blend flavors.
- Wilt Spinach: Add baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, mixing evenly with the other ingredients.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese. Continue simmering for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked penne pasta thoroughly with the creamy sausage sauce to ensure even coating.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach for a different leafy green texture and flavor.
- For a leaner option, use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce to impart additional depth and warmth.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving to save time.
