sausage pasta pesto recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sausage pasta pesto recipe
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The Best sausage pasta pesto recipe

I’ve been making this sausage pasta pesto recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The combination of flavors and textures is just right – the spicy kick from the sausage, the rich creaminess of the pesto, and the al dente bite of the pasta all come together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

I like to think of it as a comfort food that’s both familiar and exciting, like a warm hug on a cold day.

When I’m short on time, I’ll often make this recipe because it’s so quick and easy to prepare – just toss everything in one pot and let it cook.

My kids love it too, especially when I add some cherry tomatoes to give it a burst of color and flavor.

Sausage Pasta with Pesto

Sausage Pasta with Pesto

4.6 from 1147 votes

This hearty pasta dish combines savory Italian sausage with tender penne and a vibrant basil pesto sauce. It is a quick and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 620 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp salt
Water for boiling

For the Sausage and Pesto

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup basil pesto
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pasta water
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 to 12 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6The sausage should be no longer pink in the center.
7Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage.
8Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well coated.
9If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
10Season with salt and black pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the pesto and sausage are already salty.
11Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 620 kcal🧈Total Fat: 38g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Use high-quality store-bought pesto or make your own for the best flavor. For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage. You can also add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Sausage Pasta with Pesto Works

This sausage pasta pesto recipe is one I turn to again and again because it is simple, delicious, and always a hit. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, and you can reheat it in a skillet with a little olive oil to bring back the creamy texture.

For serving, I like to top it with extra Parmesan and fresh basil, and it works beautifully for family gatherings or potlucks because you can easily double the recipe. Whether it is a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Pasta with Pesto

Q: What type of sausage should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of sausage you like, but Italian sausage or sweet Italian sausage works particularly well with the pesto. If you want to go meatless, you can substitute with vegan sausage or skip it altogether.

Q: Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe with gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may have a slightly different texture than regular pasta.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

A: This recipe is quick and easy to make – it takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You can prep all the ingredients in advance if you’re short on time.

Q: Can I store leftovers in the fridge or freezer?

A: Yes, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. When reheating, just add a little bit of olive oil or water to prevent drying out.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians due to the presence of sausage. However, you can easily modify it by substituting with vegan sausage or skipping it altogether.

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