pasta and italian sausage recipe

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

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite pasta and Italian sausage recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids and husband. I love how the flavors of the sausage and the tangy tomato sauce come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight.

My kids love helping me cook the sausage and the pasta, and they’re always eager to taste the finished product. As for me, I appreciate how this recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes – my husband likes it spicy, while I prefer it mild. Either way, it’s always a winner in our household. The origins of this recipe are unclear, but it’s likely rooted in traditional Italian cuisine.

The combination of sausage and tomato sauce is a classic, and it’s easy to see why it’s been enjoyed for so long. The key to making this recipe successful is using high-quality ingredients – look for Italian sausage that’s made with pork and seasoned with fennel and anise. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings – a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a few fresh basil leaves can elevate this dish to new heights. In terms of home cooking techniques, I recommend using a large skillet to cook the sausage and the pasta.

This will allow you to easily stir everything together and ensure that the flavors meld evenly. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water before adding it to the skillet – this will help create a creamy sauce that coats the noodles perfectly. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, or use it as a side dish for a larger meal.

It’s also easy to scale up or down depending on your needs – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need something quick for dinner, this recipe has got you covered. As we dive into the details of this recipe, I want to emphasize just how much I love sharing my cooking experiences with all of you. From tried-and-true favorites like this pasta and Italian sausage recipe to newer creations that push the boundaries of flavor and technique, I’m passionate about making cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Pasta with Italian Sausage

Pasta with Italian Sausage

4.9 from 677 votes

A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring savory Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and al dente pasta. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sausage

12 ounces dried penne or rigatoni pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup dry red wine or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving

👨‍🍳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, typically 10 to 12 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pan.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
9Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
10Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
11Add the dried oregano and basil, then season with salt and black pepper.
12Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
13Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
14Add the drained pasta and toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
15Cook for 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
16Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley or basil.
17Serve immediately, passing the grated Parmesan cheese at the table for individual topping.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Colander
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 9g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use chicken or turkey Italian sausage. You can also add a cup of chopped spinach or kale to the sauce in the last few minutes of simmering for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Pasta with Italian Sausage Works

This pasta and Italian sausage recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a good idea for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something more substantial for family gatherings, this recipe delivers every time.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – cooked leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is easy: simply toss everything back into the skillet over low heat until warmed through.

For serving ideas, consider pairing this dish with some crusty bread or garlic knots on the side – these textures complement each bite perfectly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta with Italian Sausage

What type of pasta should I use?

I recommend using penne or rigatoni for this recipe – these shapes hold onto the flavorful sauce perfectly.

Can I use different types of sausage?

While Italian sausage is my go-to choice, you can definitely experiment with other types like chorizo or sweet Italian sausage.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Make sure to reserve some pasta water before adding it to the skillet – this will help create a creamy sauce without becoming too thick.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the sausage and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

What are some good topping options?

A sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a few fresh basil leaves are great additions – feel free to get creative with your own favorite toppings!

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