Save Pin A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring savory sausage, a creamy tomato sauce, and al dente penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and full of flavor.
I first made this creamy tomato and sausage pasta on a hectic weeknight, and it quickly became our family favorite. The combo of rich tomato sauce and tender sausage is an instant comfort meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta
- Meats: 300 g (10 oz) Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Sauce: 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes; 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or mixed); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cheese & Garnish: 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 4 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer 3 minutes.
- Add the Cream:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and black pepper, and simmer gently for 2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
- Finish & Serve:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Save Pin Whenever I serve this pasta, everyone gathers around the table extra quickly. Even picky eaters love the creamy sauce and savory sausage—it's become a weeknight tradition for us.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, cheese grater
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Chicken or turkey sausage can be substituted for a leaner option, and baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes added for extra nutrition.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 620 calories, 29 g fat, 60 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein.
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This creamy pasta tastes best served hot and fresh. Leftovers reheat well, making lunchtime extra delicious!