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Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta
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Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a comforting yet exciting Italian-inspired dish that perfectly balances creamy richness with bold, zesty flavors. Featuring spicy sausage, garlic, tomatoes, and Parmesan folded into tender pasta, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour. It’s hearty, customizable, and sure to become a weeknight favorite or crowd-pleasing dinner.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne, fusilli, or rigatoni pasta

  • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Sausage and Sauce:

  • 1 lb (450 g) spicy Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)

  • 1 cup (240 ml) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms or zucchini

  • ½ cup spinach or arugula (for a lighter version)

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

  • Prepare the Sausage:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage (casings removed). Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

  • Sauté Aromatics:
    In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers or other vegetables if using, and cook until softened.

  • Make the Sauce:
    Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream. Mix well, then add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

  • Combine Pasta and Sausage:
    Add the cooked sausage back to the pan and toss to coat. Add the drained pasta and mix until everything is evenly covered in sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

  • Final Touches:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle more Parmesan and fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Use mild sausage for a less spicy version or hot Italian sausage for extra heat.

  • Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream for a lighter alternative.

  • Add extra veggies like spinach, peas, or roasted peppers for color and nutrition.

  • If the sauce thickens too much after sitting, stir in a splash of milk or pasta water before reheating.

  • Best served with garlic bread and a fresh salad on the side.

Find it online: https://bon-recipe.com/spicy-italian-sausage-pasta/