Easy Baked Penne with Sausage

This easy baked penne with sausage is a comforting, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s made with hearty Italian sausage, tender penne pasta, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese baked to golden perfection. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare and comes together with minimal effort!

If you’re wondering what to make with Italian sausage, this baked penne is always a winner. For more inspiration, you might also enjoy creamy sausage pasta, sausage lasagna, or a quick stovetop sausage rigatoni.

Imagine a bubbling casserole dish straight from the oven, loaded with saucy pasta, savory sausage, and gooey cheese stretching with every bite—this recipe is pure comfort food heaven.

Why you’ll love it

Baked pasta dishes are one of my favorite go-to meals, and this baked penne with sausage checks all the boxes. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor while still being incredibly easy to make.

The combination of juicy Italian sausage and perfectly cooked penne creates a satisfying base, while the marinara sauce adds a deep, tangy richness. Once it’s topped with melty mozzarella (or cheddar) and nutty parmesan, then baked until golden and bubbly, it transforms into a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

One of the best things about this recipe is how practical it is. You can prep everything ahead of time, pop it in the oven when needed, and serve a crowd without stress. It’s also a fantastic meal for leftovers—if anything is left!

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or just craving a cozy pasta night, this baked penne delivers every single time.

What you’ll need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious baked penne with sausage:

Penne pasta – The perfect shape for holding onto the sauce and cheese. Its tube structure ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Italian sausage – The star of the dish! You can use mild or spicy depending on your preference. Remove the casing if using links and crumble it.

Onion and garlic – These aromatics build a rich flavor base. I like using a medium yellow onion for a balanced sweetness.

Marinara sauce – A good-quality jarred marinara saves time and adds deep tomato flavor. Choose one you love since it makes a big difference.

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle kick of heat. Totally optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a bit of spice.

Mozzarella or cheddar cheese – For that gooey, melty topping. Mozzarella gives classic stretch, while cheddar adds a sharper taste.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the entire dish.

Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Tools for this recipe

You don’t need anything fancy, which makes this recipe even better:

• A large pot for boiling pasta
• A skillet or sauté pan for cooking the sausage
• A baking dish (9×13 works perfectly)
• A wooden spoon or spatula
• A cheese grater (for fresh parmesan)

How to make easy baked penne with sausage

This is a simple overview. Full instructions are in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Be careful not to overcook it since it will continue baking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.

Step 3: Add aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce and stir everything together. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Combine with pasta

Add the cooked penne to the sauce mixture and toss until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella (or cheddar) evenly over the top, followed by parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!

Pro tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it slightly firm (al dente) so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
• Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and tastes much richer than pre-shredded cheese.
• Let it rest before serving – This helps the sauce settle and makes it easier to serve.
• Season in layers – Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper for the best flavor.

Substitutions and variations

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to customize it:

• Make it spicy – Use hot Italian sausage or add extra chili flakes.
• Add veggies – Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini work great.
• Switch the pasta – Try rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli instead of penne.
• Use different cheese – A mix of mozzarella, provolone, or even gouda can be delicious.
• Lighten it up – Use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese.

What to serve with baked penne

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with something fresh or crunchy makes it even better:

• Garlic bread or crusty bread
• A simple green salad
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables

Leftovers and storage

Leftovers are one of the best parts of this recipe!

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through
• Add a splash of water or sauce when reheating to keep it moist

Can you freeze it?

Yes! You can freeze baked penne either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.