Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta

This Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta is the perfect comfort food dish, combining savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Comforting and rich: The creamy sauce combined with the spiciness of the Italian sausage creates a satisfying, flavorful meal.
• Family-friendly: The recipe appeals to both adults and kids, making it a great choice for the whole family.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust the flavors to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• Heavy cream
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sausage sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meatless alternative.
• Add veggies: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to add more nutrients and texture.
• Different cheese: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, microwave leftovers in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated evenly.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes, or you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water).

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage substitute.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta shape that holds the sauce well is ideal.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the sauce may separate when reheated.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

After draining the pasta, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you finish the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, or even cream cheese for a different creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta is a satisfying and flavorful meal that comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, it’s sure to be a hit. The combination of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and tender pasta creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!

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