Name: Savory Sausage and Creamy Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-484669H8M23S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference); 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta shape); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Jump to Recipe·1 from 1 review

Savory Sausage and Creamy Pasta is a rich and hearty dish that combines the bold flavors of savory sausage with creamy pasta in a comforting, easy-to-make meal. The creamy sauce, enhanced with the spices from the sausage, envelops the pasta, making every bite irresistible. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling – The combination of sausage and creamy sauce makes this a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to for busy nights.
Flavorful – The sausage infuses the pasta with savory, well-seasoned flavor, creating a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with taste.
Customizable – You can adjust the ingredients to your taste, such as using different types of sausage or adding vegetables.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite pasta shape)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until browned and fully cooked. Remove any excess fat from the skillet.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sausage sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce for extra richness.
Serve: Serve the savory sausage and creamy pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if using) for some heat. Enjoy hot!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetables: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
Cheese: For an extra cheesy dish, add more Parmesan or mozzarella. You could also try using a blend of different cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina.
Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a little more heat in your dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover sausage and creamy pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta and sausage in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with other types of sausage such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.

Can I use a lighter version of the sauce?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as thick or rich.

Can I add more spice to the dish?

Yes! If you like heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to bring a kick to the dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to create a delicious vegetarian version. You can also add plant-based sausage for extra flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy pasta pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and sausage in advance and store it separately from the cooked pasta. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well in this dish, including penne, rigatoni, farfalle, or spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or use a hot sausage variety to spice things up.

Conclusion

Savory Sausage and Creamy Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and creamy comfort. It’s a simple yet decadent dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that will become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!