Cheesy Penne Pasta and Smoked Sausage Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Penne Pasta and Smoked Sausage Casserole—a creamy, hearty dish that combines al dente penne pasta, savory smoked sausage, and a rich homemade cheese sauce. Layered with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this casserole is infused with smoky, garlicky flavors and finished with a dash of paprika for subtle warmth and color. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing dish at family gatherings. Topped with golden, bubbly cheese and garnished with fresh parsley, every bite is a blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and satisfying savoriness. Keywords: cheesy pasta casserole, smoked sausage recipes, quick family dinners, baked penne pasta, comfort food recipes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 12 oz smoked sausage
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and smooth.
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned sausage, onion, and garlic mixture. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
574 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 38.7 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.8 g | 99% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 103 mg | 34% | |
| Sodium | 1100 mg | 48% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30.4 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.4 g | ||
| Protein | 27.2 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 465 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 406 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
