Save A hearty, comforting casserole featuring smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
I first made this pasta bake on a chilly evening when my family wanted something comforting yet simple. The combination of smoky sausage and melted cheddar was an instant hit, and now it's become a much-loved go-to for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fusilli pasta
- Meats: 250 g (9 oz) smoked sausage (e.g. kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Vegetables: 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped. 1 red bell pepper, diced. 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour. 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) whole milk. 200 g (7 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, grated. 50 g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated. 1 tsp Dijon mustard. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Topping: 50 g (1.8 oz) cheddar cheese, grated. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sausage Prep:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Vegetable Sauté:
- In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened, 3–4 minutes. Lower the heat, add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted. Mix in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Combine:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage, sautéed vegetables, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Assemble & Bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Garnish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving, if desired.
Pin it This casserole is a hit at family get-togethers: everyone gathers around the table as the cheesy, bubbling dish is served, and it's always guaranteed there'll be no leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pasta bake with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a balanced meal.
Storage & Meal Prep
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Variations
Try using smoked turkey sausage or adding extra veggies like spinach or peas to boost nutrition and flavor.
Pin it Serve with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy every bite of this comforting family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or fusilli are ideal as they hold the sauce well and crisp slightly when baked.
- → Can I substitute the smoked sausage?
Yes, smoked turkey sausage or other smoked meats can be used for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- → How do I ensure a creamy cheese sauce?
Gradually whisk milk into the roux and cook until slightly thickened before adding cheeses for a smooth, creamy texture.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely, try adding spinach, frozen peas, or diced bell peppers to enhance the dish's freshness and nutrition.
- → Is there a recommended baking time?
Bake for 20–25 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until the top is bubbling and golden brown.