Cheesy Sausage Pasta Creamy

This creamy Cheesy Sausage Pasta brings together the best of cozy comfort food in just half an hour Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something hearty it is a dish that combines savory Italian sausage melty cheeses and tender pasta smothered in a luscious sauce

I first whipped this up on a chilly evening when we needed a quick dinner and it instantly became one of our go tos for its creamy taste and satisfying feel

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: supports the sauce grab good quality bronze cut if you can
• Olive oil: smooths the cooking and adds flavor choose a fruity extra virgin
• Italian sausage: packs in flavor try to get links with visible herbs and spices
• Onion: creates a flavorful base pick a firm small onion without blemishes
• Garlic: brightens and deepens taste look for plump cloves
• Diced tomatoes: bring acidity and richness use canned with no added salt if possible
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce that velvety body fresh cream yields the richest mouthfeel
• Italian seasoning: ties everything together blend your own or pick a fresh mix
• Mozzarella cheese: adds that gooey stretch grate your own for best melting
• Parmesan cheese: brings deep savory flavor opt for a wedge and grate fresh
• Salt and pepper: balance flavors use flaked sea salt and freshly ground pepper
• Fresh basil: adds a pop of color and fresh taste go for bright green leaves if using

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil penne pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente Drain and set aside but do not rinse to keep the starch

Brown the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat Add sausage breaking it up with a spoon Cook for about six minutes until browned with crisp edges

Sauté Aromatics:

Add in diced onion and garlic Sauté gently for about three minutes until onion is translucent and fragrant This builds a savory flavor backbone

Simmer the Sauce:

Pour in diced tomatoes with juice stir in heavy cream and sprinkle Italian seasoning Bring to a gentle simmer Cook for five minutes to let the sauce thicken a bit and meld the flavors

Combine Pasta and Cheese:

Reduce heat to low Add cooked pasta mozzarella and half the Parmesan Stir until cheese melts and everything is well coated in the sauce

Season and Finish:

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Sprinkle in some salt and pepper Remove from heat and top with remaining Parmesan garnish with fresh basil leaves if you have them

Save

Parmesan is my favorite part because it brings a nutty and salty kick that pulls everything together The first time my nephew tried this he insisted on grating extra Parmesan over his bowl and now it is become our family tradition

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool and transfer to an airtight container It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days For best results reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap penne for any sturdy short pasta like rigatoni or ziti If you prefer a lighter dish use turkey sausage and half and half cream For more veggies toss in fresh spinach baby kale or roasted bell peppers

Serving Suggestions

This pasta shines as a standalone meal but also pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a crisp green salad For a winter dinner I sometimes serve it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a big bowl of steamed broccoli

Cultural Context

Inspired by classic Italian American comfort food this dish brings a touch of trattoria flavor into your kitchen Italian sausage and pasta are a timeless pairing while the creamy cheese sauce is pure American indulgence

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni. Choose a sturdy shape that holds up to the thick sauce for the best experience.

→ How do I make this dish lighter?

Swap out Italian sausage for turkey sausage and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. These adjustments will lower both fat and calorie content.

→ What vegetables work well in this dish?

Spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms all blend seamlessly. Sauté vegetables with onion and garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the sauce.

→ What cheese alternatives can I use?

Try provolone or gouda for different flavors. Be sure to use cheeses that melt smoothly for the best texture in the sauce.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low while adding cream and cheese, stirring gently so the sauce stays silky and does not separate.