A delightful baked pasta dish featuring a creamy sauce, flavorful sausage, and fresh basil.
Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
Do not rinse the pasta to retain its starch.
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Use a non-stick pan for easier cleanup.
Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant.
Do not let the garlic burn, as it will turn bitter.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir continuously to prevent the cream from curdling.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cheese gradually for a smoother sauce.
Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet until browned.
Break the sausage into small pieces for even cooking.
Add sliced red bell pepper to the sausage and cook until softened.
Stir frequently to cook evenly.
Combine the sausage mixture with the creamy sauce.
Mix well to ensure even distribution.
Blend the tomatoes with olive oil and fresh basil to create a chunky sauce.
Adjust seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.
Mix the tomato sauce with the creamy sausage mixture.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Spread the cooked pasta in a baking dish.
Grease the dish lightly to prevent sticking.
Pour the sauce over the pasta and mix gently.
Ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
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