Pin A hearty& comforting casserole featuring smoky sausage& tender pasta in a creamy cheddar sauce, baked until golden and bubbling. This dish is perfect for a satisfying family dinner or when you're craving classic comfort food.
I first made this sausage& cheddar bake on a chilly weeknight, and it instantly warmed up the house& our moods. The creamy cheese sauce combined with smoky sausage has since become a much–requested favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or fusilli pasta
- Smoked sausage: 250 g (9 oz) smoked sausage (e.g. kielbasa) sliced into ½ inch rounds
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 400 ml (1 2/3 cups)
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 200 g (7 oz), grated
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (1.8 oz), grated
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Cheddar cheese (for topping): 50 g (1.8 oz), grated
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a 2 liter baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Sausage:
- Heat skillet over medium. Add sausage and cook 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion and bell pepper to same skillet. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in saucepan over medium. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and slightly thickened, 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheeses & Flavor:
- Lower heat, add cheddar and Parmesan, stir until melted. Mix in mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Mix Together:
- In mixing bowl, combine pasta, sausage, veggies, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Bake:
- Transfer to prepared baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Finish:
- Let rest 5 minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, then serve.
Pin 
We always have second helpings when this casserole comes to the table, and leftovers make an amazing lunch the next day. My kids especially love the crispy top and extra cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine pairs beautifully with the smoky& cheesy flavors.
Allergen & Dietary Info
This pasta bake contains milk, wheat, and mustard. Check sausage labels for extra allergen information. Not suitable for vegetarians.
Variations
Swap the sausage for smoked turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative. Stir in baby spinach or frozen peas for added veggies and color.
Pin Enjoy this cozy classic with family or friends for a sure crowd-pleaser. The leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or fusilli are preferred as they hold the creamy sauce well and maintain texture during baking.
- → Can I substitute the smoked sausage?
Yes, smoked turkey sausage or other smoky cured sausages make lighter alternatives while preserving flavor.
- → How do I achieve a creamy cheese sauce?
Gradually whisk milk into the roux (butter and flour) over medium heat until thickened, then melt in cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a smooth sauce.
- → Is it necessary to pre-cook the sausage and vegetables?
Yes, browning sausage and sautéing vegetables build flavor and ensure even cooking before baking.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Adding baby spinach, frozen peas, or other mild veggies is encouraged for added freshness and nutrition.