penne and italian sausage recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best penne and italian sausage recipe

I love cooking with penne and Italian sausage, it’s a classic combination that never fails to impress. The dish originated in Italy, where penne is a staple pasta shape and Italian sausage is a popular meat option.

When I cook with penne and Italian sausage, I like to think about the rich history of this dish. The flavors of Italy come alive in this simple yet satisfying recipe.

The key home cooking technique is to cook the sausage in a skillet until browned, then add the garlic and herbs for added depth of flavor. This technique brings out the best in the sausage and creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the penne perfectly.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make this recipe on a weeknight or for a family gathering on the weekends.

Penne with Italian Sausage

4.6 from 1399 votes

This hearty pasta dish combines savory Italian sausage with tender penne in a rich tomato sauce. It is a satisfying weeknight meal that comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sausage

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 11 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of 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 cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
6Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
8Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
10Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and add the dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
11Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
12Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
13Add the drained penne pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
14Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring gently, until everything is heated through.
15Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
16Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
17Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 9g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use 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 Penne with Italian Sausage Works

This penne and Italian sausage recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple, flavorful, and loved by everyone. I often make it for family gatherings because it feeds a crowd without a lot of fuss.

The dish stores well in the fridge for up to four days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop or microwave. For serving ideas try it with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.

You can also pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your home just like it is in mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Penne with Italian Sausage

Q: Can I use different types of pasta instead of penne?

No, penne is the best choice for this recipe because its tubular shape allows it to hold onto the flavorful sauce made with Italian sausage.

Q: Can I use leaner sausage than sweet Italian?

While you can use leaner sausage, sweet Italian is preferred because of its rich flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the penne.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs like parsley or basil?

You can substitute dried herbs or omit them altogether if you don’t have them on hand.

Q: Can I serve this dish as a main course or side dish?

This recipe makes a great main course when served with a green salad or as a side dish when paired with roasted vegetables or grilled meats.

Q: How do I store leftover penne and Italian sausage?

You can store leftover cooked pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat by sautéing in olive oil until hot and bubbly.

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