Italian Sausage Pasta

Italian Sausage Pasta

Introduction

Did you know that 60% of American households prepare pasta at least once a week? If you’re among them, you might be on the lookout for a delicious twist on your classic dishes. Enter Italian Sausage Pasta, a flavorful medley that combines savory sausage with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a hearty meal in less time than average recipes—typically around 30 minutes. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with this delectable recipe?

Ingredients List

To create your Italian Sausage Pasta, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients:

• 8 oz of pasta (spaghetti or penne works well)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (either sweet or spicy, based on your preference)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved for a burst of flavor)
• 1 medium onion (diced finely for a sweet base)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced to enhance aroma)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich sauce)
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)

Substitutions:
You can opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative. Try replacing heavy cream with coconut milk or a lighter dairy option if desired.

Timing

The preparation of this Italian Sausage Pasta takes approximately 10 minutes, cooking requires about 20 minutes, resulting in a total time of 30 minutes. This is about 25% faster than most traditional pasta recipes, allowing you more time to enjoy your dish with family or friends.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, crumble in the Italian sausage and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Tip: A mixture of sweet and spicy sausage can elevate the flavor profile.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Live Ingredients

Mix in the halved cherry tomatoes, heavy cream, and broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Tip: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the delicious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate a bit of the reserved pasta water until your desired consistency is achieved.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the Italian Sausage Pasta and sprinkle with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Nutritional Information

This Italian Sausage Pasta packs a nutritious punch with approximately 600 calories per serving. Key nutritional highlights include:

• Protein: 30g (thanks to the sausage)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (for energy)
• Fats: 30g (a balance of healthy fats from olive oil and cream)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version of Italian Sausage Pasta, consider the following adjustments:

• Use lean turkey sausage instead of traditional Italian sausage.
• Substitute zucchini noodles or quinoa pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Incorporate more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to enhance fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Italian Sausage Pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a special touch, sprinkle additional herbs like oregano or thyme over the top before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Al dente is key to maintaining texture.
2. Skimping on Seasoning: Season every layer—sausage, tomatoes, and pasta—to enrich flavors.
3. Neglecting to Add Pasta Water: This simple addition can transform the sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out. For meal prep, cook the sausage and sauce separately, then combine with pasta on serving day.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage Pasta is not just another meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines flavor, nutrition, and ease. By following this simple recipe, anyone can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. So why wait? Try this recipe today, share your experiences, and check out our other delicious posts for more inspiration!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Italian Sausage Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. However, pasta may become slightly mushy upon reheating.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, ensuring to balance flavors.

3. How can I make it vegetarian?
Simply replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables for a fulfilling vegetarian version.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with your cooking prowess and share your creations with us! Happy cooking!

Italian Sausage Pasta

A delicious twist on classic pasta, combining savory sausage, fresh tomatoes, and a creamy sauce for a hearty meal ready in just 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Protein

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne) Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier options.
• 1 lb Italian sausage Choose between sweet or spicy based on preference.

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved for a burst of flavor.
• 1 medium onion Diced finely for a sweet base.
• 3 cloves garlic Minced to enhance aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can be replaced with coconut milk or lighter dairy options.
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
• Salt and pepper To taste.
• Fresh basil For garnish.
• Parmesan cheese Grated, for serving.

Instructions

 

Cooking the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Browning the Sausage

• In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and crumble in the Italian sausage. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Sautéing the Aromatics

• Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent.

Adding the Sauce Ingredients

• Mix in halved cherry tomatoes, heavy cream, and broth, bringing to a simmer. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Combining with Pasta

• Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as necessary to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Serving

• Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream. For meal prep, cook sausage and sauce separately, then combine with pasta on serving day.

Keyword Comfort Food, Hearty Meal, Italian Sausage Pasta, Pasta Recipe, Quick Dinner

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest