1 tray (344 g) Sausage Baked Penne is a mouth-watering dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. With a calorie count of 510, it is a great choice for those who are conscious about their calorie intake. This Italian pasta recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a hearty and flavourful meal.
This dish is made with sausage, marinara sauce, penne pasta, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Sausage is an excellent source of protein and adds a lot of flavour to this dish. The marinara sauce is high in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cancer and heart diseases. The cheese blend provides calcium that strengthens bones and teeth.
Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Sausage Baked Penne is a dish that will impress everyone. It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time to save you time in the kitchen.
Ingredients and Cooking Method
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for another minute. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Stir in the mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese. Pour the mixture into a large baking dish and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Health Benefits of Sausage Baked Penne
Sausage Baked Penne is a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here are some health benefits of this dish:
- The sausage provides a good source of protein that helps build and repair body tissues.
- The marinara sauce is high in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cancer and heart diseases.
- The penne pasta is a complex carbohydrate that provides energy and helps control blood sugar levels.
- The cheese blend provides calcium that strengthens bones and teeth.
Calorie Count and Serving Size
1 tray (344 g) Sausage Baked Penne contains approximately 510 calories. The serving size is one tray (344 g) of the dish.
Carbohydrates, Protein and Fat Content
Here is the nutritional breakdown of 1 tray (344 g) Sausage Baked Penne:
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Fat: 23 g
Vitamins and Minerals in Sausage Baked Penne
Sausage Baked Penne is a dish that provides a good source of vitamins and minerals. Here are some of the vitamins and minerals found in this dish:
- Calcium
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Iron
Tips for Storing and Reheating the Dish
Sausage Baked Penne can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the dish, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave the dish on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Variations of Sausage Baked Penne Recipe
There are many variations of Sausage Baked Penne that you can try. Here are some ideas:
- Use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use different types of pasta like rigatoni or fusilli.
- Add different herbs and spices like oregano or thyme.
Suitable Occasions to Serve Sausage Baked Penne
Sausage Baked Penne is a great dish to serve on many occasions. Here are some ideas:
- Family dinner
- Potluck
- Dinner party
- Baby shower
- Bridal shower
Alternatives to Sausage Baked Penne
If you are looking for alternatives to Sausage Baked Penne, here are some ideas:
- Spaghetti and meatballs
- Baked ziti
- Lasagna
- Chicken parmesan
- Eggplant parmesan
Precautions to Take While Consuming Sausage Baked Penne
While Sausage Baked Penne is a delicious and nutritious dish, there are some precautions you should take while consuming it. Here are some tips:
- Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.
- Avoid consuming this dish if you have a sensitivity to gluten or dairy.
- Avoid consuming this dish if you are on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Choose a low-sodium marinara sauce to reduce your sodium intake.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Baked Penne
1. How many servings are in a tray of Sausage Baked Penne?
A tray of Sausage Baked Penne typically contains 3-4 servings, depending on appetite and portion size.
2. What are the ingredients in Sausage Baked Penne?
Sausage Baked Penne usually consists of penne pasta, sausage, tomato sauce, cheese, and various herbs and seasonings.
3. How many calories are in a serving of Sausage Baked Penne?
A serving of Sausage Baked Penne, which is typically around 1 cup, contains approximately 170-200 calories.
4. Is Sausage Baked Penne a healthy choice?
While Sausage Baked Penne can be a delicious and satisfying meal, it is not typically considered a healthy choice due to its high calorie, fat, and sodium content.
5. Can Sausage Baked Penne be reheated?
Yes, Sausage Baked Penne can be reheated either in the oven or in the microwave. To prevent it from drying out, add a small amount of water or sauce before reheating.