Sausage Spaghetti Spirals are a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti dishes, combining the rich flavors of savory sausage, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese all wrapped up in a fun spiral shape. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering both a playful presentation and a satisfying, comforting taste. The spirals are made by rolling cooked spaghetti and sausage in lasagna noodles, baking them to perfection, and topping with fresh herbs and Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a way to jazz up your weeknight meal, Sausage Spaghetti Spirals are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups cooked spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix the Spaghetti:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cooked spaghetti, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and half of the marinara sauce.
- Season with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Assemble the Spirals:
- Place a lasagna noodle on a flat surface and spread a portion of the spaghetti mixture evenly over the noodle.
- Roll the noodle up tightly into a spiral and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles and spaghetti mixture.
- Bake the Spirals:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the spirals, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the spirals cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your Sausage Spaghetti Spirals as a fun and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes!