Cheesy Sausage, Bacon and Sweet Potato Pasta Bake

Sharing is caring!

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the richness of sausage and bacon with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, this Cheesy Sausage, Bacon and Sweet Potato Pasta Bake is just what you need. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. The creamy cheese sauce and the tender pasta make it irresistible, while the sweet potatoes add a nutritious twist that balances out the savory flavors beautifully. This bake is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This pasta bake stands out because it brings together a unique blend of ingredients you might not expect in a pasta dish. The sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and a boost of vitamins, while the sausage and bacon provide a savory, smoky depth. It’s also incredibly versatile and perfect for any season. The cheesy topping melts perfectly to create a golden, bubbly crust that everyone loves. Plus, this dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. You get all the comfort food vibes with a nutritious upgrade!

Ingredients

• 300g dried penne pasta
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 300g chicken or beef sausage, sliced
• 150g turkey or chicken bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How To Make Cheesy Sausage, Bacon and Sweet Potato Pasta Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pasta

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and lightly brown, about 8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Bacon

In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and chopped bacon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside with the sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sweet potatoes, sausage, bacon, sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and gently stir to combine.

Step 7: Bake the Pasta

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For the best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta before baking. Cook it just until al dente.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor: cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella provides gooey meltiness.
• If you want a creamier sauce, substitute half the milk with heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk.
• Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; they add a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Make sure to evenly distribute the meat and sweet potatoes in the pasta mixture to get a balanced bite every time.
• Let the pasta bake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage and bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a smoky, meaty flavor without meat.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar and mozzarella for gouda, fontina, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the veggie content and add color.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This pasta bake also freezes well — freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

What type of sausage works best in this recipe?

Any chicken or beef sausage with a mild to medium seasoning works wonderfully. Choose your favorite flavor, such as Italian-style or herbed sausage, to complement the dish.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients that enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for olive oil or vegan butter, use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk, and choose a vegan cheese substitute to make this dish dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Sausage, Bacon and Sweet Potato Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of comforting and nutritious. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its melty cheese, savory sausage and bacon, and the subtle sweetness of tender sweet potatoes. The recipe is straightforward, flexible, and ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this pasta bake guarantees a delicious, satisfying meal every time. Give it a try and enjoy a new family favorite!