Lenas Pasta Rustica
Lenas Pasta Rustica combines savory sausage, vibrant tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses for a hearty, flavorful Italian-inspired baked pasta perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 yellow onion ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 2 garlic cloves
- 3/4 lb. chicken or turkey sausage casing removed ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried basil ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. hot red pepper flakes ⓘ
- 1 28 oz. can tomatoes in puree ⓘ
- salt ⓘ
- 1 lb. penne pasta ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 2 c. shredded Fontina or Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 c. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the oil.
- Add the chopped onion; stir until golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic; cook and stir for 1 minute.
- Add the sausage, breaking it into bite-size pieces, and cook until no longer pink, about 6 minutes.
- Stir in dried basil, dried oregano, and hot red pepper flakes.
- Add the canned tomatoes with puree and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly oil a baking dish.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until barely al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the pasta well.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded Fontina or Mozzarella cheese.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top.
- Bake until the cheeses are melted and the tips of the pasta are crusty, about 30 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using sweet Italian sausage for a richer flavor, or substitute with turkey sausage for a healthier option. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; use 1 tablespoon of fresh basil or oregano instead of dried. If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the hot red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pasta dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience. For a lighter option, consider serving alongside a bowl of Italian White Bean And Kale Soup for a comforting contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lenas Pasta Rustica contains roughly 916 calories, with 19g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1652mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the pasta type, aiming for al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also include some cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal.
How do I ensure the cheese doesn't become rubbery when baked?
To prevent rubbery cheese, avoid overcooking the pasta and ensure it is just al dente before mixing with the sauce. Use high-quality cheeses, and don't skip letting the dish rest after baking; this helps the cheese set nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).