The Ultimate Sausage Pasta Recipe: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Are you craving a comforting, flavourful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further than this ultimate sausage pasta recipe! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It's packed with delicious Italian sausage, perfectly cooked pasta, and a vibrant sauce that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage and vegetables!
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional but highly recommended!)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious sausage pasta dish that will impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step builds a rich flavor base for your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This process enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This pasta water helps to create a creamy, luscious sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).
Tips and Variations for a Truly Exceptional Dish:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.
- Use different sausage: Experiment with other types of sausage, such as chorizo or chicken sausage.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Add protein: Include cooked chicken or meatballs for a heartier meal.
This sausage pasta recipe is incredibly versatile. Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own! Enjoy!
