easy italian sausage pasta

Easy Italian Sausage Pasta A Delicious Weeknight Delight

Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, known for its vibrant flavors and comforting dishes. One such recipe that encapsulates the heart of Italian cooking is Easy Italian Sausage Pasta. This dish combines the savory richness of Italian sausage with the warmth of pasta, delivering a meal that is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Easy Italian Sausage Pasta, you will need the following ingredients

- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni works best) - 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference) - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) - Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare

1. Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Sausage In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. If you’re using casing sausage, simply slice it open and crumble the meat into the pan.

3. Sauté the Aromatics Once the sausage is cooked, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its rich aroma.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Herbs Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce Once the sauce is ready, gently fold in the cooked pasta. Make sure each piece of pasta is coated in the flavorful sauce. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to thin it out a bit.

6. Serve and Garnish Spoon the delicious sausage pasta onto serving plates or into a large bowl. Finish by sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese and adding a few fresh basil leaves for a fragrant touch.

Why It’s a Favorite

The beauty of Easy Italian Sausage Pasta lies in its simplicity. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory sausage and fragrant herbs creates a delightful sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Moreover, this dish is versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces additional textures and flavors to the dish.

Conclusion

Incorporating Easy Italian Sausage Pasta into your weekly dinner rotation is a decision you won’t regret. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also evokes the warm, comforting essence of Italian cooking. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home!