Easy Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate weeknight dinner that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and convenience, look no further than Easy Sausage Pasta. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with savory sausage flavor, this dish is a genuine crowd-pleaser that’s on the table in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of basic ingredients to make Easy Sausage Pasta, but each one packs a punch! Together, they create a luscious, satisfying pasta you’ll want to make again and again.

• Penne Pasta: The shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully and delivers the perfect bite every time.
• Salt: Just a couple teaspoons in the pasta water brings out every flavor in this dish—don’t skip it!
• Pork Sausage (like Jimmy Dean): Gives Easy Sausage Pasta those bold, savory, slightly spicy notes that take it over the top.
• Heavy Cream: Turns the sausage pan sauce into a silky, indulgent coating for your pasta, making every bite extra luscious.
• Pasta Water: Reserved right before draining, a splash loosens the sauce and helps it cling to every noodle.
• (Optional) Garlic and Green Peppers: If you love a little more complexity or a pop of color, add these in while the sausage cooks for layers of extra flavor.

Variations

One of the best things about Easy Sausage Pasta is how easily you can tweak it to suit your mood, your pantry, or your family’s dietary needs! Here are a few delicious ways to make it your own:

• Switch Up the Sausage: Try Italian sausage (mild or spicy), turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage for a lighter twist.
• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for color and an added nutritional boost.
• Make it Cheesy: Stir in a handful of shredded parmesan or mozzarella right at the end for extra richness.
• Go Gluten-Free: Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta—no one will even notice the difference!

How to Make Easy Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook the penne pasta according to the package directions for al dente. This gives you just the right toothsome texture and keeps the noodles from getting mushy once you toss them in the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add the pork sausage and break it up with a spatula. For even more flavor, toss in garlic and chopped green peppers with the sausage as it cooks. Sauté until the sausage is golden and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Reserve Pasta Water

Before you drain the pasta, carefully scoop out about ½ cup of the starchy cooking water and set it aside. This simple trick is the secret to a glossy, cohesive sauce that hugs every piece of penne.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a plate with a slotted spoon. Return that hot pan to the stove and pour in the reserved pasta water. Scrape up all those brown, flavorful bits stuck to the bottom—they’re flavor gold! Lower the heat and add heavy cream. If you’re adding extra veggies, they can go in now. Let the sauce bubble gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until thickened and dreamy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat every piece. Return the cooked sausage to the pan, mixing well until everything is beautifully combined. Serve Easy Sausage Pasta immediately—trust me, no one will want to wait!

How to Serve Easy Sausage Pasta

Garnishes

For an extra touch, shower each bowl of Easy Sausage Pasta with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or pecorino. Chopped fresh parsley or basil adds color and a pop of herby brightness. A pinch of red pepper flakes brings zing if you like a hint of heat!

Side Dishes

This simple pasta is deliciously satisfying on its own, but it’s even better with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of creamy sauce. A crisp green salad with lemony dressing or steamed vegetables offers a fresh balance to the richness of the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your Easy Sausage Pasta by twirling individual servings into shallow pasta bowls, then topping with extra cream sauce and a little sausage crumble. Serve family-style in a big, rustic dish for sharing, or portion into ramekins and broil with cheese for a bubbly, golden twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store cooled Easy Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, but for best results, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. The cream sauce may thicken a bit after thawing, but a splash of milk and gentle reheating revives it beautifully.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions with a couple tablespoons of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce, or warm gently on the stovetop, stirring until creamy and hot throughout.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re in need of a super-satisfying, no-fuss meal that delivers comfort and flavor with every bite, Easy Sausage Pasta is your new go-to. Try it this week—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular dinner request at your home!

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