Sausage and Kale Pasta Bake

Sausage and kale pasta bake is a rich, satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with the earthy, nutrient-packed goodness of kale, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This comforting casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner or to feed a crowd, offering a balance of hearty meat, wholesome greens, and pasta, all baked together until golden and bubbling. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time.

The base of this pasta bake starts with cooked pasta – penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice – which holds up well to the creamy sauce and hearty ingredients. The sausage is cooked until browned, releasing its rich, savory flavor, and mixed with sautéed garlic and onions to build a flavorful foundation. The kale is added next, wilting down into the mix, adding a slight bitterness that complements the richness of the sausage. You can use either fresh or frozen kale, but fresh is ideal for its texture and color.

For the sauce, a creamy combination of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a velvety, cheesy base that ties everything together. A little tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can be added for a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the sausage and cheese. Once the pasta, sausage, kale, and sauce are mixed together, it’s all baked in the oven until the top is golden and crispy, creating a beautiful contrast of textures.

Sausage and kale pasta bake is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it by adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switching up the type of sausage. It’s also great for meal prepping and can be easily stored and reheated for later. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation – hearty, flavorful, and satisfying with every bite.

Sausage and Kale Pasta Bake

3.83 from 34 votes

A hearty and comforting pasta dish with savory sausage, tender kale, and a cheesy crust.

Servings 4 people

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

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• 8 ounces pasta penne or similar
• 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
• 1 bunch kale stems removed, chopped
• 1 cup marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
• Add the kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
• Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
• Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
• Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 15-20 minutes.
• Serve warm and enjoy your sausage and kale pasta bake.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 730mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5700IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 4mg

Calories: 480kcal

Meal Type: Lunch

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: comfort food, pasta, sausage

Cooking Method: Baked

Diet: Meatlovers

Time: 30-45 Min

Level: Easy

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