Best Italian Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of Italian cuisine into one satisfying casserole. This dish features al dente pasta, savory Italian sausage, tender chicken breast, and a mix of fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection under a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
I first encountered a version of this recipe at an Italian restaurant, where the combination of ingredients left a lasting impression. The melding of flavors and the ease of preparation made it a staple in my kitchen. Over time, I tweaked the recipe to suit my family’s tastes, adding more vegetables and ensuring that the pasta was perfectly cooked. This dish has since become a favorite for its simplicity and the comfort it brings. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it becomes a cherished dish in your home as well.
Ingredients
1 lb. pasta of any type, cooked until al dente
2 jars spaghetti sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 onion, chopped
2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks
1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
1 lb. Italian sausages, cut into pieces
2 tbsp. olive oil
½ tsp. Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). This will ensure that the oven is at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake the dish.
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb. of your preferred type of pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Chop the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, chop 1 onion and cut 2 red bell peppers into chunks. Set these aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables
Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. This will prevent the meat from sticking to the pan and add a nice flavor.
Saute the Meat:
Add 1 ½ lbs. of cut chicken breast pieces and 1 lb. of cut Italian sausage pieces to the skillet. Saute for about 5 minutes, or until the meat begins to brown. This step helps to seal in the juices and flavors of the meat.
Add Vegetables:
Stir in the chopped onion and bell pepper chunks. Continue to sauté the mixture until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning over the mixture and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Drain Excess Fat:
Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the meat and vegetable mixture, and 2 jars of spaghetti sauce. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the pasta is well coated with sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. The cheese will melt and form a delicious, gooey topping.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Step 4: Serve
Cool Slightly:
Allow the Best Italian Bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
Serve:
Serve the Best Italian Bake hot, straight from the baking dish. Pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian meal.
Variations and Substitutions
Best Italian Bake is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and sausage and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the spaghetti sauce is also gluten-free.
Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken and sausage with ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Parmesan, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique twist.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
Best Italian Bake is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your dinner table with ease. The combination of tender pasta, savory meats, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting and hearty meal that everyone will love.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. The straightforward preparation and baking process make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
Enjoy the process of making this flavorful dish, and relish the compliments you’ll receive when serving it. Best Italian Bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, perfect for any occasion where you want to enjoy a taste of Italy.
