Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Italian Sausage Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that brings together the bold flavors of Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and onions with a savory tomato sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can easily customize it to your taste by adding extra veggies or using your favorite type of pasta. With juicy sausage and the warmth of Italian herbs, this pasta dish makes for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, hot, or a mix)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the flavors meld together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add Cream and Pasta
Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through for 1-2 minutes. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: You can use mild or hot Italian sausage based on your preference. If using sausage links, remove the casing before cooking.
- Pasta Water: Adding a little reserved pasta water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and gives it a silkier texture.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or omit it entirely for a more traditional tomato-based sauce.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the skillet with the onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheesy Bake: Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake in a 400°F oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- White Wine Sauce: Replace half of the tomato sauce with 1/2 cup of dry white wine for a different depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pasta ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Italian Sausage Pasta?
Yes, this pasta freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as rigatoni, penne, or even spaghetti. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well.
What can I serve with Italian Sausage Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Italian Sausage Pasta is an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a rich tomato sauce, savory sausage, and creamy goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a salad, and you have a comforting dinner that’s ready in no time.
Try this recipe and enjoy a warm, hearty pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
