italian sausage with pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
italian sausage with pasta recipe
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The Best italian sausage with pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share this Italian sausage with pasta recipe with you all. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and easy recipes that my family will love, and this one is a real winner.

The combination of sweet Italian sausage, flavorful herbs, and tender pasta is a match made in heaven. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I love how quickly it comes together on a weeknight.

Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies in – just add some steamed broccoli or a side salad to make it a complete meal. I’ve been making this recipe for years now, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether we’re having a family dinner or hosting friends over, this Italian sausage with pasta is always a hit. And the best part?

It’s so easy to customize to your taste – just add your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own. I like to serve it with some crusty bread and a simple green salad for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Italian Sausage and Pasta Skillet

Italian Sausage and Pasta Skillet

4.8 from 767 votes

A hearty one-pan meal featuring spicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce. This comforting dish comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sausage

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
8 ounces dried pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 4 minutes.
9Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
10Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
11Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
12Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
13Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
14Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
15If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
16Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
17Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Large pot for pasta
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use chicken or turkey Italian sausage. You can also add a cup of fresh spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

Watch Video Of How Italian Sausage and Pasta Skillet Works

This Italian sausage with pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick weeknight dinner.

Plus, it’s so versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding different herbs and spices.

And let’s not forget the leftovers – you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage and Pasta Skillet

Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Penne or rigatoni work well because they hold onto the sauce nicely.

Q: Can I use leaner sausage?

Sure thing! Just know that leaner sausage might make the dish slightly less flavorful.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the sausage and pasta ahead of time, but assemble the dish just before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Nope! This recipe contains Italian sausage, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians.

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