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.
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.