Cheesy & Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta – Best Comfort Food Recipe

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When you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious, nothing hits the spot quite like Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Ricotta. This dish is packed with flavorful Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and a rich homemade tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. If you love baked pasta dishes, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, fennel, and oregano creates a deep, savory taste.
  • Cheesy Goodness: A perfect balance of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan for creamy and melty textures.
  • Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this a foolproof dish.
  • Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for serving a hungry family or saving leftovers for later.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully, making it a great option for busy days.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create the perfect baked pasta dish, you’ll need these key ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – Enhances the flavor and helps brown the sausage.
  • ¾ pound bulk Italian sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey) – Adds protein and richness to the dish.
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced – Provides bold, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Enhances the Italian flavors in the sauce.
  • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds, coarsely crushed – Adds depth and a slight sweetness.
  • Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional) – For a little extra heat.
  • 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes with juices – Forms the base of the sauce.
  • 1 (14-ounce) can crushed or strained tomatoes – Adds richness and smoothness.
  • 2 bay leaves – Infuses the sauce with subtle, earthy notes.
  • Salt, to taste – Brings out the flavors.
  • 12 ounces dried pasta (such as small shells or farfalle) – Holds the sauce well and provides a great bite.
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-size pieces – Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.
  • 6 ounces whole-milk ricotta (about ¾ cup) – Adds creaminess and richness.
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves – Brightens the dish with fresh, herby flavor.
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Complements the dish with a touch of spice.

Step-By-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the garlic, oregano, fennel seeds, and red-pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add both cans of tomatoes and their juices, crushing the whole tomatoes with your hands or a spoon.
  5. Toss in the bay leaves and season with salt.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Add the pasta and cook 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate (it will finish cooking in the oven).
  4. Drain and return the pasta to the pot.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Remove the bay leaves from the sauce.
  2. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and gently toss to combine.
  3. Add half of the mozzarella and mix lightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Dollop the ricotta over the pasta in small spoonfuls.
  3. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy baked pasta with sausage and ricotta!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Pasta

  • Use high-quality tomatoes – For a better, richer sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta – It should be slightly undercooked before baking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella – It melts better and adds a creamy texture.
  • Add extra veggies – Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.
  • Make it ahead – Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake when ready.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage or substitute with plant-based alternatives like mushrooms or lentils.

2. Can I freeze baked pasta?

Absolutely! Bake the pasta, let it cool completely, and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

3. What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Shells, rigatoni, or penne work best as they hold onto the sauce.

4. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Try provolone, fontina, or gouda for a different cheesy twist.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, or microwave for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Sausage and Ricotta is the ultimate comfort dish that is easy to prepare, full of bold flavors, and loved by all. With a savory sausage tomato sauce, rich ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy baked pasta is a recipe worth adding to your collection. Give it a try today and indulge in a mouthwatering, satisfying meal!

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