Description
This Baked Penne casserole delivers irresistible flavor with its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 teaspoon olive oil, or cooking oil of choice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup shallots, (or onions) minced
- 12 oz italian sausage, removed from casing
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
- pinch red pepper flakes, optional
- ¾ cup low fat (2%) cottage cheese, small curds
- 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- chopped italian parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells al dente according to the package directions. Drain and allow to cool.
- In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and shallots; cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, stirring often. Incorporate the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, tasting and adjusting seasoning. Allow to cool for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, cooled sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella cubes thoroughly. Transfer the combination to a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Broil for 30-45 seconds to achieve a golden top. Let stand for 5-8 minutes before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
You can substitute different types of pasta or cheese based on what you have on hand.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg