Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

This restaurant-quality pasta dish combines spicy Italian sausage with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that's bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this comforting meal comes together in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

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Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Pasta

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 30

Servings:

Calories: 485kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
11 oz hot Italian sausage
3 cloves garlic minced
½ cup chicken broth or white wine
½ tbsp flour
14 oz canned diced tomatoes
½ cup heavy/whipping cream
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves torn
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the Italian sausage and brown completely, breaking it into small pieces. Remove sausage and set aside.
In the same skillet with remaining drippings, cook minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in chicken broth (or white wine) and flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
Add diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir in heavy cream and return cooked sausage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Add pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Substitute mild Italian sausage if you prefer less heat, or add red pepper flakes for extra spice

White wine adds depth of flavor, but chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute

Fresh basil is essential for the best flavor - add it at the end to preserve its bright taste

Save some pasta water as it helps bind the sauce and achieve the perfect creamy consistency

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese and provides superior flavor

Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3 days and can be reheated with a splash of cream or broth

Nutrition