Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), removed from casings
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound (454g) dried pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
  • 2 cups (226g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup (113g) shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup (113g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, cooked ground beef

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sausage sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
  6. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add your optional toppings now, if using.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.