Creamy Sausage Pasta Heaven
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful Creamy Sausage Pasta, a dish that combines savory Italian sausage with a rich, creamy tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, promising a satisfying and unforgettable culinary experience.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine optional, or use chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 pound pasta, penne, rigatoni, or farfalle recommended
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not boil.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if desired).
Notes
For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce for up to 30 minutes. Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is key. High-quality sausage makes a big difference in the final flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients.