Here’s a hearty and flavorful recipe for Italian Sausage Penne Pasta that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting, savory dish:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Italian sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the sauce:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- For a creamy variation, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine everything:
- Add the cooked sausage back into the sauce and stir to combine. Toss in the cooked penne pasta, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Stir until everything is coated.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
This Italian Sausage Penne Pasta is rich, flavorful, and easy to make—a perfect weeknight dinner!