Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, penne or fusilli work best for holding the sauce, but any tubular pasta like rigatoni or macaroni will also work well.

How can I make this dish leaner?

Swap pork sausages for turkey or chicken varieties, and consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.

Mozzarella provides melty richness while cheddar adds sharp flavor. Mixing both balances creaminess and taste perfectly.

Absolutely, assemble and refrigerate the bake before cooking. Bake just before serving for best freshness and texture.

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions up to 2 months for convenience.

A hearty, family-friendly pasta bake loaded with savory sausage, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce—perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget.

This pasta bake has been a favorite in our family for years. It always brings everyone to the table for seconds.

Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) penne or fusilli pasta
Sausage: 500 g (1.1 lb) budget pork sausages (about 6) casings removed
Vegetables & Sauce: 1 medium onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 x 400 g (14 oz) can chopped tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed herbs), 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional), 1 tbsp olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese: 200 g (2 cups) grated mozzarella cheese, 80 g (3/4 cup) grated cheddar cheese
Garnish (optional): Fresh parsley chopped

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2:: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3:: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage meat and cook breaking it up with a spoon until browned (about 5 minutes).
Step 4:: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Step 5:: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Add dried herbs chili flakes (if using) salt and pepper. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
Step 6:: Combine the cooked pasta and sausage sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir in half of the mozzarella and half of the cheddar cheese.
Step 7:: Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top.
Step 8:: Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 9:: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Our family always enjoys gathering around this dish, sharing stories, and enjoying every bite together.

Add chopped bell pepper or spinach for extra vegetables. Pairs well with a simple green salad.

Large pot, Large skillet, Mixing bowl, Baking dish (approx. 22 x 33 cm/9 x 13 in), Wooden spoon, Chefs knife

Calories: 565, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 28 g per serving

This pasta bake is simple yet satisfying making it a go-to meal any night of the week.

→ Can I use different types of pasta?: Yes, penne or fusilli work best for holding the sauce, but any tubular pasta like rigatoni or macaroni will also work well.
→ How can I make this dish leaner?: Swap pork sausages for turkey or chicken varieties, and consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
→ What cheese combinations work best?: Mozzarella provides melty richness while cheddar adds sharp flavor. Mixing both balances creaminess and taste perfectly.
→ Can this be prepared in advance?: Absolutely, assemble and refrigerate the bake before cooking. Bake just before serving for best freshness and texture.
→ How should leftovers be stored?: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions up to 2 months for convenience.