I’m so excited to share this recipe for penne with Italian sausage, a dish that never fails to impress my family and friends. This classic Italian recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I’m always amazed by how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out.
The combination of tender penne pasta, flavorful Italian sausage, and rich tomato sauce is a match made in heaven. I love serving this dish at family gatherings, potlucks, and even just on a regular weeknight when I want something hearty and satisfying.
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding or substituting different vegetables, herbs, or spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.
As an added bonus, this dish is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days. The key to making this recipe shine is in the technique – don’t overcook the pasta or sausage, and be sure to let the sauce simmer long enough to allow all the flavors to meld together.
With these simple tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable penne with Italian sausage dish that will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Penne with Italian Sausage
4.9 from 1375 votes
This hearty pasta dish combines savory Italian sausage with tender penne in a rich tomato sauce. It is a quick and satisfying weeknight meal that comes together in under an hour.
1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, 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.
9Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
10Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes.
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 slightly thickened.
12Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
13Stir the heavy cream into the sauce until fully incorporated, then add the drained penne pasta.
14Toss everything together over low heat for 2 minutes, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
15Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
16Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste.
17Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately in warm bowls.
For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet. You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich.
Watch Video Of How Penne with Italian Sausage Works
This penne with Italian sausage recipe is one of those special dishes that never fails to bring everyone together around the dinner table.
It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions – plus it’s packed with nutrients from all those veggies!
To store leftovers safely without compromising flavor quality when reheating later down line after reheating portions remain nutritious because food safety guidelines were followed during preparation process before consuming.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Penne with Italian Sausage
Q: What type of Italian sausage should I use?
A: For this recipe, I recommend using sweet Italian sausage, which has a milder flavor than hot Italian sausage. You can also use any combination of the two if you prefer a spicier kick. Just be sure to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly if you’re using hot sausage.
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional penne?
A: Absolutely! Many brands now offer gluten-free versions of penne pasta that work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure that the gluten-free option doesn’t contain any other ingredients that might affect the flavor or texture of your dish.
Q: How long should I cook the Italian sausage before adding it to the sauce?
A: Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned on both sides, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This will help release its flavorful oils and add depth to your sauce.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’re planning to freeze the entire dish, be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q: What are some good side dishes that complement this penne with Italian sausage recipe?
A: Some great options include garlic bread, a green salad with vinaigrette dressing, sautéed broccoli with lemon zest, or even roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
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