Sausage Pasta Dish: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try Tonight

Sausage Pasta Dish is a delightful culinary creation that brings together the rich flavors of savory sausage and the comforting texture of pasta. As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but think about its roots in Italian cuisine, where hearty ingredients come together to create meals that are both satisfying and nourishing. This dish has become a favorite in many households, including mine, because it strikes the perfect balance between taste and convenience. The juicy sausage infuses the pasta with a burst of flavor, while the creamy sauce envelops each bite, making it a true comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this sausage pasta dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni work great)
• 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Set Aside**: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

4. **Cook the Sausage**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. 5. **Add Onions and Garlic**: Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. 6. **Incorporate Bell Pepper and Zucchini**: Next, add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Building the Sauce

7. **Add Tomatoes and Broth**: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine. 8. **Season the Mixture**: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. 9. **Stir in the Cream**: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. This will give the sauce a rich and creamy texture. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. 10. **Add Parmesan Cheese**: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines with the sauce. This will enhance the flavor and create a luscious consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

11. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. 12. **Adjust Seasoning**: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Serving the Dish

13. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the sausage pasta in bowls or on plates. I like to use a large serving spoon to make sure everyone gets a good portion of sausage and veggies. 14. **Garnish**: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese if you like. 15. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade sausage pasta dish! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family.

Storage and Reheating

16. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 17. **Reheating**: To reheat, simply place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce, and stir

Conclusion:

In summary, this sausage pasta dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of savory sausage, al dente pasta, and a rich, aromatic sauce creates a comforting meal that is sure to please both family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the sausage for a vegetarian option, add in seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even experiment with different types of pasta to suit your taste. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own. Whether you’re serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a side of garlic bread, or a crisp salad, this dish is bound to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how you customized your sausage pasta dish and any tips you might have for others. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret trying this delicious recipe. Print