Description
Savor the delightful Baked Penne, a cheesy oven-baked casserole loaded with rich flavors and simple prep. With pasta shells, Italian sausage, and creamy cheeses, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup shallots, minced
- 12 oz italian sausage, removed from casing
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- pinch red pepper flakes
- ¾ cup low fat (2%) cottage cheese
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- chopped italian parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta by preparing pasta shells to al dente according to package directions. Drain and let cool.
- Prepare sauce by heating olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add garlic and shallots; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Simmer by adding crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let cool for 15 minutes.
- Assemble by preheating oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cooled sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella cubes. Toss well then transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese melts. Broil for 30-45 seconds to brown the top. Let stand for 5-8 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Feel free to substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add more spices according to personal preference for spicier flavor.
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 60mg