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Sausage Pasta

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Sausage Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish made with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it delivers bold flavor with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14–15 ounces) crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage from casing if needed and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if necessary, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
  3. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
  5. Return sausage to the skillet. If making a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
  • For extra depth, add a splash of white wine before simmering the sauce.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/sausage-pasta/