Creating Baked Penne with Sausage is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne, followed by half of the sausage mixture, and then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
8. Top with Cheese: Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
9. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish and Serve: Let the baked penne rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Following these steps will lead you to create a delicious Baked Penne with Sausage that everyone will rave about!