Italian Sausage Pasta

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Here’s a flavorful recipe for Italian Sausage Pasta, with a delicious blend of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and pasta:

Italian Sausage Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well)
  • 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference), casing removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Sausage
    • While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
    • Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics
    • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
    • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Make the Sauce
    • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
    • Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
    • Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sausage
    • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
    • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.
  6. Serve
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips:

  • Heat Level: Use spicy Italian sausage for a little extra kick, or go with mild for a more balanced flavor.
  • Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
  • Creaminess: For a richer sauce, add a bit more cream or even a dollop of ricotta cheese.

This Italian Sausage Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

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