Italian Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a comforting Italian meal. Packed with flavor and easy to make, this pasta dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Italian Sausage Pasta is a classic dish that brings together the bold flavors of Italian sausage, garlic, herbs, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta shapes and additional ingredients. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Sausage Choice: Use mild or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Heavy Cream Substitute: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Cheesy Bake: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- White Wine: Add 1/4 cup of white wine to the skillet after cooking the sausage for added depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked pasta.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
3. Can I Freeze This Pasta?
The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and combining with freshly cooked pasta.
Italian Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With tender pasta, savory sausage, and a creamy tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is always a good choice. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors!
Happy Cooking!
