Save A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring savory sausage, a creamy tomato sauce, and al dente penne—perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this creamy tomato and sausage pasta on a hectic weeknight when everyone was hungry and short on patience. The simple steps delivered a cozy meal with minimal fuss that quickly became a family favorite.
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 Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Brown Sausage:
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 4 minutes.
- Sauté Veggies:
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Finish Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and black pepper, and let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add some reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Garnish:
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Save My kids love to help sprinkle the Parmesan and fresh herbs on top before serving—it brings everyone to the table with a smile!
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, cheese grater
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Try with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Pairs well with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 620 calories; 29 g total fat; 60 g carbohydrates; 28 g protein.
Save Enjoy this comforting pasta dish with crusty bread and your favorite salad for a complete meal. It's sure to become a weeknight classic at your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne is ideal for holding the creamy tomato sauce well, but rigatoni or fusilli would work as great alternatives.
- → Can I use other meats instead of sausage?
Yes, chicken or turkey sausage can provide a leaner option while maintaining the dish's savory profile.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Stirring in heavy cream at the end creates a smooth, rich sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.
- → What herbs complement this dish?
Dried Italian herbs like basil and oregano enhance the tomato sauce, and fresh basil or parsley added at serving brightens the flavors.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Incorporating spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during cooking adds color, nutrition, and extra depth to the sauce.