Introduction
Indulge in a classic comfort dish that combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, savory marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This simple yet delicious recipe will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this dish is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground mild Italian sausage
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
1¼ cups jarred marinara sauce (no sugar added)
8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
16 pepperoni slices (plus additional if desired)
Optional Toppings:
Sliced mushrooms
Diced red onion
Diced green bell pepper
Sliced black olives
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that brings the flavors of an Italian feast to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, this dish can be customized with your favorite toppings or enjoyed as is. Happy cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Cook Sausage Mixture
In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground Italian sausage, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook and crumble the sausage for 6-8 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Remove from heat and drain any excess grease.
Assemble the Dish
Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of the skillet. Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the sausage layer.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Top with Pepperoni
Top with pepperoni slices. If using optional toppings, add them now, being careful not to overcrowd the surface.
Bake
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Choosing Sausage
Opt for mild Italian sausage for a balance of flavor without overwhelming spice.
Adjusting Toppings
Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite toppings, but avoid overcrowding for the best results.
Check Doneness
Ensure the cheese is thoroughly melted and slightly golden for optimal texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Cook techniques
Skillet Cooking
Using a large, oven-safe skillet allows for easy cooking and serving. It minimizes the number of dishes to clean and helps maintain the dish’s heat while it’s in the oven.
Searing
Searing the sausage in olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also creates a nice browned texture that adds depth to the dish.
Layering
Layering the cooked sausage, marinara sauce, and cheese ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully. Each layer contributes to the overall taste and texture.
Baking
Baking at a high temperature (425°F) helps to melt the cheese quickly and create a crispy, golden top. It also allows any additional toppings to cook without becoming soggy.
Resting
Letting the dish cool for a few minutes after baking allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve without the toppings sliding off.
FAQ
What type of skillet should I use for this recipe?
An oven-safe skillet, such as cast iron or a stainless steel skillet, is ideal for this recipe. It can transition from stovetop to oven without any issues.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the mild Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage or another ground meat if desired, keeping in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
You can use other types of cheese like provolone, cheddar, or a combination of them. Just ensure they melt well for a similar effect.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any toppings you prefer, but avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Conclusion
This hearty dish combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage, savory marinara, melted mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni, creating a delicious, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The optional toppings offer a great way to customize your dish according to personal preferences, ensuring that every bite is satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Variation
Swap the Italian sausage for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Bake
Replace the marinara with barbecue sauce and use shredded cooked chicken instead of sausage. Top with red onions and cilantro for a unique twist.
Spicy Pepperoni and Jalapeño Bake
Add sliced jalapeños along with the pepperoni for an extra layer of heat.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Bake
Incorporate a mixture of spinach and artichoke dip beneath the cheese layer for a creamy and flavorful twist.
Meat Lovers Delight
Add additional meats such as diced ham, crumbled bacon, or ground beef to join the Italian sausage for a packed flavor experience.
Breakfast Pizza Bake
Use breakfast sausage and crack some eggs on top before baking for a breakfast-version that’s hearty and filling.
Pasta Bake
Mix in cooked pasta with the sausage and marinara before layering with cheese for an Italian-style pasta bake.
Caprese Style Bake
Add fresh basil leaves and slices of tomato after baking for a fresh take inspired by the classic Caprese salad.
