Recipe of the Day: Italian Pasta Bake 🍝🧀  

Healthy Fact of the Day: Italian Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together pasta, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying meal.

Now, let's dive into the recipe!

Italian Pasta Bake

1 pound penne or your favorite pasta
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it's softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the sauce, and half of each type of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the Italian Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve your Italian Pasta Bake hot.