Cheesy Baked Italian Sausage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Baked Italian Sausage is an easy, one-pan meal that delivers bold Italian flavors without a lot of effort. The juicy Italian sausages are roasted with a savory blend of melted cheese, making them irresistible. With the added bonus of minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests with little hassle. Whether you’re a fan of Italian sausage or just love cheesy dishes, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

• 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, based on preference)

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large oven-safe dish, place the Italian sausages in a single layer.

3. Pour marinara sauce over the sausages, ensuring they are all covered.

4. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the sausages.

5. Top the sausages with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for an added kick.

• Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Add Veggies: You can add bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the dish for extra flavor and texture.

• Make it Low-Carb: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Add a little extra cheese on top before reheating if desired for extra creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter version.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked sausages with sauce and cheese for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

3. What should I serve this dish with?

This dish pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

4. How do I know when the sausages are fully cooked?

The sausages should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

6. What type of marinara sauce is best?

Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for the best flavor. A good-quality marinara sauce with herbs and spices will complement the sausage perfectly.

7. Can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce before baking.

8. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Add the sausages, sauce, and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, then top with cheese in the last 30 minutes.

9. Can I use shredded cheese instead of grated Parmesan?

Yes, shredded Parmesan works just fine, but grated Parmesan will melt more evenly and blend better into the dish.

10. How do I avoid the sausages from being too dry?

To keep the sausages juicy, make sure they’re fully coated with marinara sauce and cheese. You can also baste them halfway through the baking time with the sauce for extra moisture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Italian Sausage is a delicious and simple recipe that’s packed with savory flavors. With its melty cheese, juicy sausages, and robust marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe offers both convenience and comfort. The best part is, it’s easily customizable to fit your taste preferences. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the fun variations, you’re guaranteed a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Cheesy Baked Italian Sausage

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Cheesy Baked Italian Sausage is a simple, one-pan meal featuring juicy Italian sausages, a rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. This easy recipe delivers bold Italian flavors in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to satisfy sausage lovers and cheesy food enthusiasts alike. Serve it with pasta, garlic bread, or a salad for a complete meal!

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5min
• Cook Time: 30min
• Total Time: 45min
• Yield: 4servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, based on preference)

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Sausages:
   In a large oven-safe dish, place the Italian sausages in a single layer.

3. Add Sauce and Seasonings:
   Pour marinara sauce over the sausages, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder evenly over the sausages.

4. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the sausages.

5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

• Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for an added kick.

• Cheese Variations: You can swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a different flavor.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.