Sausage Mozzarella Supper
A hearty baked sausage and pasta dish layered with melty mozzarella cheese, rich tomato sauce, and savory Italian sausage, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked sausage with spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, mushrooms, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a square baking pan.
- Layer half of the cooked corkscrew noodles, sliced mozzarella cheese, and meat sauce in the pan.
- Repeat the layers with remaining noodles, cheese, and sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh mushrooms instead of canned, and experiment with different types of Italian sausage for varying spice levels. You can substitute the corkscrew noodles with penne or fusilli if preferred. If you like a creamier texture, add ricotta cheese between layers, similar to a Sausage Lasagna Wraps. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning before baking!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top enhances the presentation and adds freshness. This Sausage Mozzarella Supper pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like a classic Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Mozzarella Supper contains roughly 100 calories, with 6g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1398mg per serving (61% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, provolone or fontina cheese can be great alternatives, as they melt well and have a nice flavor. For a healthier option, consider using part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. You can also add more mushrooms for texture and flavor, ensuring a satisfying meatless meal.
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).