Get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that combines the best of Italian flavors with a hearty twist! This Cheesy Sausage Bacon Sweet Potato Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Picture perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, complemented by savory Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes—all topped with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Whether you're looking for a family dinner that will impress or a delicious dish to share with friends, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into a plateful of cheesy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy and fat is rendered, about 5-6 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- In the same skillet, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Cook for 6-7 minutes until no longer pink and fully cooked through.
- Add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are slightly tender and beginning to caramelize.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage, sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, marinara sauce, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly, and edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or rigatoni, to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes Perfectly: Make sure to dice the sweet potatoes into even pieces for consistent cooking. If you're short on time, you can microwave them for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.
- Bacon for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip on the bacon! The rendered fat adds a depth of flavor to the dish that enhances the overall taste.
- Mix and Match Cheeses: While shredded cheese is a must, feel free to mix different types like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the pasta bake to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to eat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 110mg
