Creamy Tomato Sausage Penne
A comforting dish of penne pasta in a creamy tomato sauce with savory Italian sausage, perfect for busy families seeking a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz Penne Pasta The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian Sausage Adds savory depth and rich flavor.
- 1 medium Onion, diced For a fragrant and slightly sweet base.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances the aroma and taste.
- 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Provide juiciness and a fresh flavor burst.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates the creamy, luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds a nutty richness and creaminess.
- 1 tbsp Dried Basil Contributes a touch of herbal warmth.
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano Rounds out the flavors with an earthy note.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing and flavor enhancement.
- to taste Salt & Pepper Essential seasoning for enhancing all flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. Ensure your kitchen is organized to make the process smooth.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic finely to release their flavors.
- Remove the casing from the Italian sausage if necessary, breaking it apart into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out the basil, oregano, and other seasonings for easy access while cooking.
- Boil a large pot of salted water for the penne pasta.
Cooking
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically around 11-12 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to avoid burning.
- Incorporate the Italian sausage, browning it until cooked through and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, and oregano, mixing until well combined and heated through for about 2-3 minutes.
Serving
- Drain the cooked penne pasta, reserving a bit of pasta water to add to the sauce if needed.
- Combine the penne with the creamy sausage mixture in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For extra flavor, use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild for a kick. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.