Baked Pasta With Sausage And Tomato Pesto Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Pasta With Sausage And Tomato Pesto

• Hot Italian Sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• Garlic Cloves
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce
• Pesto Sauce
• Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1 lb penne pasta
• Smoked Gouda Cheese
• Parmesan Cheese
• Baby Spinach Leaves

How to Make Baked Pasta With Sausage And Tomato Pesto

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Oil a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened. Stir frequently.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the pesto, season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
7. Cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
8. Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the prepared baking dish.
9. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the remaining sauce, shredded Gouda (or mozzarella), 1/3 cup of the Parmesan cheese, and the chopped spinach. Mix well.
10. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 2/3 cup of Parmesan cheese.
11. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
12. Let stand for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!