Slice and fry smoked sausage Prepare pasta… I use 3 packs of Knorrs or 2 boxes
mac & cheese
Ingredients:
Smoked sausage: 1 pound, sliced and fried
Pasta: 3 packs of Knorr’s pasta or 2 boxes of mac and cheese
Fresh broccoli: 2 cups, steamed to perfection
Shredded cheese: 1 1/2 cups (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
Instructions:
Prepare the Smoked Sausage:
Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
Fry the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and slightly crispy. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. If using Knorr’s pasta, follow the cooking directions for the packs. If using mac and cheese, cook the pasta and mix in the cheese sauce as instructed.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
Steam the Broccoli:
Cut the fresh broccoli into small florets.
Steam the broccoli until tender yet crisp, approximately 4-5 minutes. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried smoked sausage, cooked pasta, and steamed broccoli. Mix until well combined.
Add Cheese:
Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delightful blend of smoky sausage, creamy pasta, and nutritious broccoli
20 tips to help you make the perfect Smoked Sausage, Pasta, and Broccoli Bake:
1. Choose Quality Sausage:
Use high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor. You can also try a spicy or flavored sausage for added depth.
2. Even Slicing:
Slice the sausage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
3. Brown the Sausage:
Cook the sausage until it’s browned and slightly crispy for added flavor and texture.
4. Drain Excess Grease:
After frying the sausage, drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
5. Cook Pasta Al Dente:
Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft.
6. Use Fresh Broccoli:
Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid overcooking it to maintain a nice crunch.
7. Season the Broccoli:
Add a pinch of salt to the broccoli while steaming to enhance its natural flavor.
8. Try Different Pastas:
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or shells, to change the texture of the dish.
9. Mix Cheeses:
Combine different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, for a richer flavor profile.
10. Add Garlic:
Sauté some minced garlic in the skillet before frying the sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
11. Include Onion:
Sauté sliced onions with the sausage for added sweetness and depth.
12. Use Whole Wheat Pasta:
For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta, which adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
13. Try a Cheese Sauce:
Instead of just shredded cheese, mix in a homemade cheese sauce for a creamier texture.
14. Add Spices:
Sprinkle in some black pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to add a kick to the dish.
15. Top with Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the top of the dish with toasted breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy topping.
16. Use a Non-Stick Baking Dish:
To prevent sticking, use a non-stick or well-greased baking dish.
17. Bake Until Golden:
Bake the dish until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top for the best presentation.
18. Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the dish before baking for extra richness.
19. Let It Rest:
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together.
20. Serve with Fresh Herbs:
Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or basil before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
These tips will help you create a flavorful, satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy!