If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels comforting but elevated, this baked Tuscan style pasta is it. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with flavor from Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach—all brought together with a velvety cream sauce and finished with a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
It’s the kind of meal that feels perfect for a cozy night in but is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.
Baked Tuscan Style Pasta
Description
This baked Tuscan-style pasta is the ultimate cozy dinner, made with tender shell pasta, savory ground sausage, and rich sun-dried tomatoes all baked together in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Every bite is packed with bold Italian-inspired flavors, from garlic and herbs to a perfectly cheesy, golden top layer. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels elevated but comes together with simple ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients
Seasonings (for sauce):
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the shell pasta according to package directions.Drain and set aside.
-
Cook Sausage
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, heat the sun-dried tomato oil over medium heat.Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.Remove from the pan and set aside.
-
Build Flavor Base
In the same pan, add chopped onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
-
Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
-
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning, mixing well to coat everything evenly.
-
Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Add spinach and let it wilt.Stir in 1/2 cup mozzarella and parmesan until melted and smooth.
-
Combine
Return sausage to the pan and add cooked pasta.Mix until everything is well coated.
-
Broil
Top with remaining mozzarella and broil on high for about 4 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
Note
Tips for Best Results
- Use oil from the sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
- Don’t skip cooking the tomato paste—it deepens the sauce
- Watch closely while broiling to avoid burning
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick
Serving Ideas
Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
