This Cheesy Italian Sausage recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers a delicious combination of melted mozzarella and savory sausage, all baked in rich marinara sauce. It’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying appetizer.
By stuffing Italian sausages with gooey mozzarella and baking them in marinara sauce, this dish creates a comforting, cheesy, and slightly smoky flavor. Whether served on its own, over pasta, or with a side of crusty garlic bread, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Simple & Quick: Only three ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Cheesy & Savory: Mozzarella melts into the sausage, making every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Serve over pasta, with a salad, or on its own.
Ingredients
• 6 Italian sausage links, uncooked
• 6 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Dish
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausages
1. Using a sharp knife, slice each Italian sausage lengthwise about halfway through, making sure not to cut all the way through.
2. Insert one mozzarella cheese stick into the slit of each sausage.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
1. Place the stuffed sausages into the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the sausages.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sausages are fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
1. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve hot, either on its own or with pasta, salad, or garlic bread.
Tips for Success
• Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
• For extra cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
• Add spice with crushed red pepper flakes in the marinara sauce.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
