An easy, delicious baked pasta dish that cooks (almost) entirely in one pan!
While the pasta is cooking, start layering your ingredients in a large heatproof skillet. The broccoli rabe cooks in the same pot as the pasta, and they are both added to the skillet along with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Pop the whole thing in the oven till golden brown and bubbly and serve!
Sausage Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound sweet or spicy Italian sausage
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 8 ounces of your favorite short pasta (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 small bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and roughly chopped
- 16 ounces shredded mozzarella
Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees; bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
While the water is coming to a boil heat the oil over medium-high heat in a 12” ovenproof pan or skillet. Saute the onion and thyme for 10 minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Add the garlic and sausage and cook the sausage till broken down, browned and no longer pink inside. Add the tomatoes and cook for 5 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
When the water comes to a boil cook the pasta for 4 – 5 minutes less than the instructed cooking time. Add the broccoli rabe and cook for 15 seconds, till bright green. Drain well and add to the skillet, stirring till thoroughly combined. Add half the mozzarella and stir again. Top with the remaining mozzarella and bake for 15 minutes. Turn the oven to broil and continue baking till golden brown and bubbly (watch carefully to avoid burning). Let cool slightly and serve.
