Description
This creamy sausage pasta is a cozy, one-pan dinner packed with savory sausage, tender pasta, and a velvety cream sauce. It’s simple to make, ready in about 30 minutes, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients
-
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
-
2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
8 oz uncooked short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
1/2 cup chopped spinach or parsley (optional, for color)
Instructions
-
Cook the sausage in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed.
-
Add onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
-
Pour in chicken broth and cream, then stir in uncooked pasta. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
-
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Add chopped spinach or parsley (if using) and stir until just wilted.
-
Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if desired!
Notes
-
Use spicy sausage for a bold kick, or sweet sausage for a milder flavor.
-
Want it extra cheesy? Add 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella at the end.
-
This dish reheats beautifully—great for leftovers or meal prep!