Unlock the secret: how to make italian sausage casserole that will knock your socks off

• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 ounces pasta shells, cooked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove from heat and drain off any excess grease.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil until softened.

3. Combine the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Add the Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta shells.

5. Transfer to a Casserole Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole.

7. Bake: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips:

• For a more spicy casserole, use spicy Italian sausage.
• Add other vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Top the casserole with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Variations:

• Creamy Italian Sausage Casserole: Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
• Spinach and Ricotta Italian Sausage Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of cooked spinach and 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese to the pasta mixture.
• Tortellini Italian Sausage Casserole: Use tortellini instead of pasta shells for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the Italian sausage casserole with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Top with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of flavor.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a complete dining experience.

The Perfect Comfort Food

This Italian sausage casserole is not just a dish; it’s a culinary embrace that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef for Italian sausage in this recipe. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: What type of pasta can I use?
A: Any type of short pasta, such as penne, shells, or rotini, will work well in this casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When ready to serve, bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, the casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q: What are some other topping options?
A: In addition to mozzarella cheese, you can also top the casserole with grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, or a mixture of both.