Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta from Pizza Hut features tender pasta tossed in a robust marinara sauce loaded with savory ground beef and Italian sausage, topped with melted mozzarella cheese and fresh herbs, delivering a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Pot or large saucepan
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (casserole dish)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Oven mitts
- Ladle or large spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 oz/800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz/425g) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
Ensure the ground beef and Italian sausage are fresh for the best flavor; choosing high-quality meats enhances the richness of your sauce. Using canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce provides a robust base, but balancing acidity with sugar is key to achieving a well-rounded taste. Fresh garlic and onion, sauteed in olive oil, release essential flavors that form the foundation of this dish. Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan add creamy and tangy notes, making your pasta irresistibly cheesy. Your homemade version of the Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta from Pizza Hut effectively captures the hearty, Italian-inspired essence of the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and Italian sausage to skillet.
- Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and meat sauce; mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to lightly brown cheese.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and basil if desired.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
The Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta from Pizza Hut copycat menu offers a rich combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and a robust marinara sauce over penne pasta, topped with melted mozzarella and fresh herbs. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be increased slightly to enhance aroma and taste. For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and increase the tomato sauce and vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Mozzarella cheese can be replaced with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses if desired.
Tips
Using salted water is crucial when cooking your penne pasta to enhance its flavor and ensure it doesn't taste bland. When browning the ground beef and Italian sausage, drain excess fat to prevent your marinara sauce from becoming greasy. Simmering the sauce for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but be sure to stir occasionally to avoid sticking or burning. After baking, letting your Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta rest for 5 minutes helps the cheese set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Nutritions
Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta provides a balanced source of protein from ground beef and Italian sausage, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The dish delivers carbohydrates from penne pasta, supplying sustained energy for your daily activities. Rich in calcium and phosphorus, the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses contribute to strong bones and teeth. You'll also benefit from antioxidants and dietary fiber found in tomatoes, onions, and herbs, which promote heart health and digestion.
Storage
To store your Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. The dish can be safely kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months to preserve flavor and texture. When reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge and warm thoroughly in the oven or microwave to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef and Italian sausage to create a leaner version of the Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta. Incorporating sauteed mushrooms or bell peppers into the sauce adds extra texture and depth of flavor. For a richer cheese layer, try blending ricotta or mozzarella with Parmesan before topping the pasta. If you prefer, bake the dish in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings.
Allergies
Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta contains common allergens such as dairy from mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, which may cause reactions in those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. The recipe also includes ground beef and Italian sausage, which could pose a risk for individuals with meat allergies or sensitivities. You should carefully check ingredient labels for potential hidden allergens like preservatives or additives if you have specific dietary concerns.
Why this recipe?
Pizza Hut's Tuscani Meaty Marinara Pasta combines rich, savory marinara with generous portions of seasoned sausage and ground beef, creating a satisfying and hearty flavor profile that appeals to meat lovers. The pasta is perfectly cooked to al dente, blending seamlessly with the robust tomato sauce and melted cheese for a comforting and indulgent experience. You'll find that recreating this dish at home allows control over ingredient quality and customization, making it worth trying the copycat recipe. This popular menu item offers a restaurant-quality meal that balances taste and convenience, making it a favorite choice.