Smoky Sausage Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) salsiccia affumicata, sliced 1 lb (450g) salsiccia affumicata, sliced
• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (Sugars: 6g)
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2.
   Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, cook the sliced salsiccia affumicata over medium heat until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
5. 5.
   Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked penne pasta and browned salsiccia affumicata to the skillet. Mix well to coat the pasta and sausage with the sauce.
8. 8.
   Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Salsiccia affumicata — If you can't find salsiccia affumicata, you can substitute it with any other smoked sausage variety such as kielbasa or chorizo.
• Penne pasta — To achieve the perfect al dente texture, make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and avoid overcooking it.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a crispy cheese topping, broil the pasta bake for a few minutes after baking until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Serve the Smoky Sausage Pasta Bake with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Smoky Sausage Pasta Bake hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves on top of the baked dish before serving. Serve it in individual portions or family-style in a large baking dish.