Baked Penne & Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe

Ever had one of those nights where the family craves something like Olive Garden, but you’re left scrolling through the menu looking for something that fits your keto lifestyle? That’s where this heavenly Baked Penne & Italian Sausage Pasta comes into play. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish is a testament to the joy of creating a delicious, keto-friendly version of a classic pasta bake at home. It’s a meal that promises the warmth of a home-cooked dinner, making it a perfect choice for those chilly evenings or a cozy weekend meal with the family. Plus, it’s almost as easy as ordering takeout but with the satisfaction of a homemade dish that doesn’t derail your keto goals.

Baked Penne & Italian Sausage Pasta

Transform your pasta night with this sumptuous, keto-friendly dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 package of low-carb penne pasta (like Great Low Carb Penne Pasta)
• 1 lb Italian sausage, browned
• 1 jar tomato & basil sauce (sugar-free, low-carb)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Boil the low-carb penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the tomato & basil sauce.
5. Add the drained pasta to the sausage and sauce mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Place under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
8. Serve hot and enjoy a guilt-free pasta night.

Breakdown of Ingredients and Average Carb Content

Creating a keto-friendly version of a beloved dish like pasta bake means paying close attention to the carb content of each ingredient. Let’s break it down:

• Low-Carb Penne Pasta: Varies by brand, but typically around 7g net carbs per serving.
• Italian Sausage: Generally 0g carbs, but always check the label as some brands may add fillers.
• Tomato & Basil Sauce: Look for sugar-free, low-carb options, usually around 3-4g net carbs per 1/2 cup.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Less than 1g net carbs per ounce.

Total carbs for this dish will depend on the specific brands of ingredients used and serving sizes, but by choosing low-carb options, you can keep it well within your keto goals.

A Pasta Night Revolution

This Baked Penne & Italian Sausage Pasta recipe proves that you don’t have to give up your pasta nights on a keto diet. With the right ingredients, you can recreate the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine in a way that fits your lifestyle. It’s all about finding joy in the kitchen and delighting in the meals you can enjoy without compromise. Gather your family around the table, serve up this delicious dish, and watch as everyone savors each bite, keto or not. It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of flavor, family, and the flexibility of keto cooking. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become a new family favorite.