Okay, friend, let me tell you about a dish that’s pure magic – my Sausage Noodle Casserole. Seriously, this isn’t just any casserole; it’s a warm, hug in a dish, the kind of meal that makes you feel all cozy inside. If you love lasagna but crave something a little simpler, a little quicker (and maybe even a little *more* comforting), then you absolutely HAVE to try this. It’s the kind of meal my grandma used to make, and honestly, one bite takes me right back to her kitchen. The best part? It’s so incredibly easy to throw together, even on those nights when you think you have *zero* energy to cook. It’s a symphony of savory sausage, tender noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have everyone fighting for seconds. Trust me; this will become a family favorite, just like it is in my home.
What is Sausage Noodle Casserole?
So, what *is* Sausage Noodle Casserole, exactly? Well, think of it as a deconstructed lasagna, but instead of carefully layering everything, you mix it all together into one glorious, bubbly, cheesy mess. It’s essentially a baked pasta dish where cooked noodles are combined with browned sausage, a rich tomato-based sauce, and plenty of cheese. It’s incredibly versatile, too. You can use different types of sausage, different kinds of cheese, even sneak in some extra veggies if you’re feeling virtuous. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for a chilly evening, a potluck dinner, or just when you need a little something to make you smile. My version is a bit of a “kitchen sink” recipe – I throw in whatever odds and ends I have in the fridge, and it *always* comes out amazing.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why you’ll fall head-over-heels for this Sausage Noodle Casserole!
• Flavor explosion: WhatWhat are some of the best combinations of sausage, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese? Is there a flavor profile that appeals to everyone, from picky kids to discerning adults? The sausage provides a wonderful depth of flavor, while the tomatoes add an acidic, bright flavor. What’s not to love about melted cheese?
• Crazy easy:Is this recipe foolproof? If you boil water and brown sausage, you can make this casserole. No fancy techniques, no complicated layering, just simple ingredients and straightforward recipes. What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need to get tucked into your favorite meal in under an hour?
• Budget friendly All the ingredients are pretty inexpensive and easy to find. You probably already have many of them in your pantry and fridge. It’s a great way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. I’ve even made it with day-old bread crumbs instead of cheese on top when I was really pinching pennies, and it was still delicious!
• Super versatile: IsThis casserole is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Can you substitute Ground Beef for turkey? What are some good ways to serve a cheese with pesto? I sometimes throw in a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein and fiber. What is a good way to use up leftover ingredients and create scrumptious dishes? Is gluten-free noodles good for diabetics? Can you use dairy-free cheese alternatives?
What I love about this recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve brought it to potlucks, served it at family gatherings and even made it for a casual dinner. How can I get rave reviews for this restaurant? Is it like a baked ziti, but with the added heartiness of the sausage? What is a complete meal in one dish? Plus, the leftovers are just as good, making it perfect for meal. What are quick lunches? What are some of the best recipes you’ve ever made?
How do I make sausage noodle casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this Sausage Noodle Casserole is easier than you think! Basically, you’ll cook the noodles, brown the sausage, whip up a simple sauce, and then mix everything together with cheese before baking it all to golden, bubbly perfection. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; no fancy techniques are required, and it’s incredibly forgiving. Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can totally nail this! Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. The secret is to not overcook the noodles – you want them slightly underdone, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Trust me; the aroma that fills your kitchen while this bakes is worth the effort alone!
Ingredients
For the Sausage Noodle Casserole:
• 1 pound Italian Sausage (I prefer mild, but hot works great too)
• 1 pound egg noodles
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) container of ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Ingredient Notes:
For the sausage, I typically use mild Italian sausage, but feel free to use hot sausage if you like a little kick! You can also use ground beef or turkey as a substitute. When it comes to the noodles, egg noodles work best because they’re sturdy and hold their shape well. However, you can use any type of pasta you prefer – penne, rotini, or even bowties would work just fine. Make sure to use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor – San Marzano tomatoes are my go-to. And don’t skimp on the cheese! Use the best quality mozzarella and Parmesan you can find – it makes a big difference in the overall flavor of the casserole.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. How do you make a casserole smooth and easy to clean? I’ve learned the hard way that skipping this step can lead to a mess! This prep work only takes a minute or two, but it’s crucial for the successful outcome.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by about 2 minutes. You want the noodles to be slightly underdone, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Drain the noodles well and set aside. I always add a tablespoon of olive oil to noodles to prevent them from sticking.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
While the noodles are cooking, brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. What is the best way to break up sausage with a spoon? Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. I always use a paper towel to soak up any remaining grease in the skillet – this helps to prevent burns. How do I stop a casserole from becoming too greasy?
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Stir. Refrigerate until ready to use. How do you add salt and pepper to the skillet with the browned sausage? Stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. How do you add flavor to a sauce? I sometimes add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sausage sauce, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the olive oil, 1/4 cup water, and salt. Set aside. How much Parmesan cheese is in this recipe? Stir everything together until well combined. How do you cook a casserole?
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
What is the best noodle recipe? Pour it into a baking dish. What’s your favorite way to serve mozzarella cheese on top of a pasta?
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. What is a casserole? If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the casserole with foil. I always check the internal temperature of the casserole with a meat thermometer to make sure it’s done. If it is heated through, it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up a bit and makes it easier to slice and serve. Slice and serve warm. I love to garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
What should I serve it with?
What is a Sausage Noodle Casserole? What are some of the best side dishes? What are some of my favorite songs?
For a Casual Dinner: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the rich and hearty casserole. I also love serving it with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
For a Potluck or Party: Bring along a vibrant Caprese salad or a platter of assorted olives and cheeses. It’s always a crowd pleaser.
For a Family Gathering: Try serving it with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
My family loves it with a side of steamed green beans. It’s a comforting and satisfying combination that everyone enjoys. And don’t forget dessert! A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of apple pie is the perfect way to end the meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Sausage Noodle Casserole
Want to take your Sausage Noodle Casserole to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
Don’t overcook the noodles: As I mentioned earlier, it’s important to cook the noodles slightly underdone, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles will result in a mushy casserole.
Use good quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your casserole. Use good quality crushed tomatoes, cheese, and sausage.
Don’t skimp on the cheese: Cheese is what makes this casserole so delicious, so don’t be afraid to load it up! I like to use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, but you can use any type of cheese you like. Provolone, cheddar, or even Gruyere would be delicious.
Add some veggies: Sneak in some extra veggies for added nutrition and flavor. Sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be great additions.
Make it ahead of time: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freeze it for later: This casserole also freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator: Store leftover Sausage Noodle Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftover casserole in the microwave or oven. To reheat in the microwave, heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. I like to add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating to make it extra gooey and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Sausage Noodle Casserole recipe. It’s a dish that’s stood the test of time in my family, and I know it will become a staple in your home too. The combination of ease, affordability, and incredible flavor makes it a winner every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this casserole has you covered. And if you’re a fan of cozy, comforting meals, be sure to check out my other pasta bakes and casseroles – there’s something for everyone! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!
Sausage Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Italian sausage mild or spicy
- 10 ounces egg noodles uncooked
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked noodles, sausage, and marinara sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
