Description
This creamy sausage pasta features Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 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)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
- 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.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.
- 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 browned and cooked through.
- 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.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine.
- 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.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines with the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Serve the sausage pasta in bowls or on plates, ensuring everyone gets a good portion of sausage and veggies.
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade sausage pasta dish!
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes