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This sausage pasta recipe is a simple, satisfying meal packed with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, beginner cooks, and anyone craving a comforting homemade dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this sausage pasta comes together quickly while delivering big flavor.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time
10 minutes
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
4 servings
Difficulty
Easy
Easy
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips
- Use spicy Italian sausage if you enjoy a little extra heat.
- Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best.
- Reserve pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides the best flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Storage Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti work well with this sausage pasta recipe.
Can I make sausage pasta ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to reheat.
Can I make this recipe without cream?
Absolutely. The sauce will still be delicious and slightly lighter without the cream.
What vegetables go well in sausage pasta?
Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are excellent additions.
