Cheesy Pasta al Forno with Italian Sausage

Cheesy Pasta al Forno with Italian Sausage

Savory (Lunch or Dinner)

Cheesy Pasta al Forno with Italian Sausage is a comforting Italian bake made with rigatoni or penne pasta, juicy sausage, and a rich, herby tomato sauce. Finished with layers of creamy, melted cheese and baked until golden and bubbly, it delivers a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

Difficulty

MEDIUM

DOSES FOR

4-6

COOKING

50-mins

PREPARATION

NORMAL

EDITED BY

LET'S ORGANIC

oLIVE OIL

Quantity

2 tbsp

garlic cloves

Quantity

2 (minced)

chili flakes  (optional)

Quantity

1/2 tsp

tomato passata

Quantity

400ml

Salt

Quantity

to taste

black pepper

Quantity

to taste

Basil leaves

Quantity

(optional)

ricotta cheese

Quantity

1 cup

béchamel sauce

Quantity

1 cup

grated Parmesan

Quantity

1/2 cup

tomato paste

Quantity

400ml

shredded mozzarella

Quantity

1 cup

Method

Cook the Pasta:

  • Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente (it will cook more in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.

  • Add Italian sausage and cook until browned. Break it into small chunks with a spatula.

  • Stir in oregano, chili flakes, tomato paste, and passata. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Season to taste. Add chopped basil if desired.

Mix the Cheese:

  • In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and béchamel if using.

Assemble:

  • Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

  • Mix the pasta with the sausage sauce. In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, spread half of the cheese mix. Repeat with remaining pasta and top with more cheese.

Bake:

  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

Serve:

  • Let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.

    Tip: This dish is even better the next day! Great for meal prep or freezing.

Enjoy Your Meal !