Paccheri Pasta with Sausage and Creamy Tomato Sauce is a hearty and indulgent dish featuring large paccheri pasta filled with a savory sausage and creamy tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Pasta
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Ingredients
12 ounces paccheri pasta
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the paccheri pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
Add the cooked paccheri pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Increase the red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a spicier dish.
For extra creaminess, stir in some shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and check that the sausage is gluten-free.