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Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A bold and creamy pasta dish featuring spicy Italian sausage, a flavorful tomato-based sauce, and tender pasta. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta – Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the sausage – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove excess grease if needed.
  3. Sauté aromatics – Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Make the sauce – Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Add cream & cheese – Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Let simmer for 2-3 more minutes.
  6. Combine with pasta – Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  7. Serve – Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  • Use mild Italian sausage if you prefer less spice.
  • Swap heavy cream for whole milk for a lighter version.
  • Add spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor.