1-Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350º F (175º C). This step ensures even cooking and helps meld the flavors together from the start.

2-Bring a large pot: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook pasta for 3 minutes less than package instructions to keep it firm. Drain and set aside for now.

3-Heat a large skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart, and cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily.

4-Add minced garlic: Add minced garlic to the sausage and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, which adds a fresh, zesty kick.

5-Pour in pasta sauce: Pour in pasta sauce, stir, and simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors blend nicely.

6-Add cooked pasta: Add cooked pasta and 3/4 cup (about 85 g) of cheese to the sausage sauce mixture, stirring to combine everything evenly.

7-Pour mixture: Pour mixture into a casserole dish and top with remaining cheese for that gooey, melted finish.

8-Cover and bake: Cover and bake for about 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly and hot. Optionally, broil for a few minutes for browned cheese on top.

9-Remove from oven: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh basil on top if desired, adding a burst of color and flavor.