creamy sausage pasta
This creamy sausage pasta dish is a delightful combination of savory sausage and a rich, velvety sauce, perfect for a comforting meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Pasta strainer
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage Mild or spicy, your choice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic Minced.
- 1 medium onion Chopped.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
This dish can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prepping.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Adjust the cheese accordingly.