Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines hearty sausage, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is easy to make and bursting with bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
• Packed with rich and spicy flavors.
• Uses simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Customizable with different pasta and vegetables.

Ingredients

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

• Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• Olive oil
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Heavy cream or cream cheese (optional for a creamy sauce)
• Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. If using, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Lighter Version: Use turkey sausage and a lower-fat dairy alternative.
• Extra Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Cheesy Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes! Slice pre-cooked sausage and add it when sautéing onions and garlic.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a little tomato paste to thicken it.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese and heavy cream or use a dairy-free alternative.

What’s the best way to make it less spicy?

Use mild Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes! A splash of red wine adds depth and richness to the sauce.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Use a low-carb pasta alternative like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

How can I add more protein?

Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra sausage.

What’s the best side dish for this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Conclusion

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to please. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this pasta is a delicious, satisfying option. Try it today and savor the incredible taste!

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