If you’re craving something rich, hearty, and irresistibly satisfying, look no further than Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta. This dish brings together tender pasta, savory sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.
Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week—this creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish is as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta
To create this creamy baked masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
pasta base:
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12 oz (340 g) penne, rigatoni, or fusilli pasta
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Salt (for pasta water)
sausage mixture:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (casings removed)
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
the creamy sauce:
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
topping:
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1/2 cup mozzarella or mixed cheese blend
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large pot (for boiling pasta)
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Medium saucepan (for the cream sauce)
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Whisk
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, then add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce begins to thicken. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.
4: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and creamy cheese sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella or a cheese blend. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta
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Use quality sausage: Spicy or sweet Italian sausage works beautifully in this dish. You can also substitute chicken or turkey sausage if desired.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
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Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
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Use fresh cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt smoothly—grate your own for the best results.
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Make it ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – Serves 6)
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Calories: 670
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Protein: 27g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 42g
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Saturated Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 6g
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Sodium: 890mg
Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta
There’s something deeply comforting about pasta baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The combination of hearty sausage, smooth béchamel, and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare. Best of all, it’s a one-dish wonder—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need to feed a hungry crowd. This dish also makes excellent leftovers and reheats beautifully.
Final Thoughts: Try This Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta Tonight
If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s rich, cozy, and easy to make, this Creamy Baked Sausage Pasta checks all the boxes. It brings together the bold flavor of sausage with creamy, melty cheese in every bite. Give it a try tonight and treat your family—or yourself—to something truly satisfying.
Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with fellow pasta lovers. For more creamy and hearty pasta dishes, explore our blog’s comfort food collection!
