pasta and sausage recipes
This pasta and sausage recipe combines flavorful Italian sausage with al dente pasta and a savory sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 skillet or frying pan
- 1 colander for draining pasta
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.
- 1 pound Italian sausage Choose mild or spicy based on preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion Diced.
- 3 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces, undrained.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs Oregano, basil, thyme.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional.
- Salt To taste.
- Pepper To taste.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese For serving.
- Fresh basil leaves For garnish, optional.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and add the sausage meat to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
You can substitute the penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer.
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated for a quick meal.