This Spaghetti & Sausage Bake is a hearty, flavorful, and cheesy dish that combines juicy Italian sausages, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and rich marinara sauce. Baked with a layer of golden, bubbly cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Sausage:
1 lb spaghetti
1 lb Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti 1 minute less than al dente according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage & Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausages and cook until browned on all sides.
Remove sausages, slice them into rounds, and return them to the skillet.
Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add marinara sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine & Transfer to a Baking Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti with the sauce and sausage mixture.
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti & Sausage Bake
Use spicy sausage if you like extra heat.
Cook pasta slightly underdone so it absorbs the sauce while baking.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Swap mozzarella for provolone for a smokier cheese topping.
Variations to Try
Meat Lovers Version: Add ground beef or pepperoni for more protein.
Cheesy Alfredo Bake: Replace marinara with alfredo sauce and use chicken sausage.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti & Sausage Bake is an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s loaded with flavor, melty cheese, and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today!