Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
  • 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
  • 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 cups (500 ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) additional mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
  6. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!