Italian Sausage Pasta

There’s something truly comforting about a big bowl of Italian Sausage Pasta — tender noodles tossed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with savory sausage and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and makes everyone gather around the table a little faster.

This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to feel special. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying pasta that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Brown the Sausage:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
   Stir in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the heavy cream. Stir well and let the sauce thicken slightly — about 3–4 minutes.
5. Combine Everything:
   Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss well to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Cheese & Herbs:
   Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Spice it up: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Creaminess control: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
• Make ahead: Cook the sauce in advance and store separately — just add pasta before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Sausage Pasta: Swap pork sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Tomato-Free Cream Sauce: Skip the diced tomatoes and use more cream and cheese for a luscious white sauce version.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Sausage Pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or warm focaccia for soaking up the sauce

Conclusion

This Italian Sausage Pasta is comfort in a bowl — creamy, savory, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a cozy date night, or just craving something hearty and homemade, this dish hits the spot every time.