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Spicy Sausage Pasta

Spicy Sausage Pasta
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Spicy Sausage Pasta is a quick, bold, and comforting meal combining spicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, zesty sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this versatile dish uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to deliver a satisfying and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Pasta

  • 12 oz spicy Italian sausage (or chicken sausage for a leaner option)
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta

Aromatics and Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh diced tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Finishing Touches

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, reserving one cup of pasta water, and set pasta aside.
  2. Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage from casings and crumble into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Build the Sauce: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes, then add diced tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Make it Creamy: Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half while stirring constantly. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Sausage: Browning quickly preserves juiciness and flavor.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to adjust sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
  • Balance the Spice: Start with less crushed red pepper flakes and add more gradually to suit your heat tolerance.
  • Fresh Herbs Matter: Add basil or parsley just before serving to provide a fresh brightness.
  • Cheese Last: Sprinkle Parmesan immediately before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy sausage pasta, quick pasta recipe, creamy sausage pasta, easy dinner, Italian pasta dish

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/spicy-sausage-pasta/