ITALIAN BAKE

Introduction

Do you love the rich flavors of Italian cuisine combined with gooey cheese? If so, this Italian Bake is the perfect dish for you! This hearty casserole is not only an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner with your family, but it’s also a hit at potluck gatherings. Kids especially adore this dish because it’s mild yet flavorful, featuring all the ingredients they love. Originally found in an old potluck cookbook, I’ve added my twist by mixing cheese into the filling, as well as creating a deliciously cheesy topping. For a little extra zest, I’ve included Asiago cheese on top, but feel free to skip it if you’re serving very young children.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, spicy sausages, and vibrant bell peppers with comforting pasta and a generous amount of cheese. It’s easy to prepare, and the leftovers taste just as good, if not better, when reheated.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large deep baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

• 3 pounds chicken breasts (cooked & cut into bite-size pieces)
• 6 Italian sausage links
• 2 jars of spaghetti sauce (I use Hunt’s in the can – cheaper & just as good!)
• 1 pound of pasta (penne, macaroni, shells, or whatever you like)
• 1 large package of pizza cheese
• 1 onion
• 2 large bell peppers – red & green, cut into chunks

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the chicken, onion, peppers, and sausage into bite-size pieces.
3. Boil the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring not to overcook it, then drain.
4. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, sausage, onion, peppers, chicken, and spaghetti sauce.
5. Transfer the mixture into a large deep baking dish. If the mixture doesn’t fit, you can make a smaller side dish to freeze for later.
6. Generously top with pizza cheese.
7. Bake in the oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is al dente before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
• Customize the cheese topping according to your preference. Asiago cheese adds a nice tang, but it’s optional.

Additional Tips and Variations

• You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.
• Substitute the chicken with turkey or beef to suit your taste.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding more veggies.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is high in protein from the chicken and sausages, offers a good amount of carbohydrates from the pasta, and is rich in flavors and nutrients from the vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen? This Italian Bake is easy to make, delicious, and sure to be a favorite among your family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations and experiences in the comments below. Buon appetito!