This Easy Spicy Sausage Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines tasty sausage with a little kick! It’s quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Honestly, who doesn’t love pasta? Plus, the spice adds a fun twist. I like to sprinkle extra cheese on top—because everything’s better with cheese, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for penne or rigatoni because they hold the sauce well. You can use any pasta you have on hand; spaghetti or fusilli work just as good too!
Spicy Italian Sausage: The sausage adds that nice kick! If you want a milder flavor, you can use turkey sausage or even chicken sausage. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage.
Olive Oil: This is essential for sautéing. You can swap it for vegetable oil if that’s what you have, but I prefer the flavor of olive oil.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes adds great flavor. You could also use fresh tomatoes—just roughly chop them up. If you want a spicier twist, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work. Just note the taste will change slightly.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta Turns Out Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is really important for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Always start with plenty of salted water. This helps flavor the pasta as it cooks.
- Check the package for cooking time, but taste the pasta a minute before it’s supposed to be done. You want it al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it.
- Once done, don’t forget to drain it! A quick rinse under cold water isn’t necessary; just drain it well and toss it into the sauce right away.
How to Make Easy Spicy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
For the Sausage and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus about 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it’s softened, which will take about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (including their juices) and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
5. Make it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking the sauce until it’s creamy and heated through. This is where you can season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Give it a good stir!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well to ensure that all the pasta is evenly coated with that creamy, spicy goodness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil or chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Sausage Pasta
Can I Use Mild Sausage Instead of Spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, go ahead and use regular Italian sausage. You can always adjust the red pepper flakes to add the spice to your preference later.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter substitute, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will differ slightly!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and sauce in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat on the stove before tossing in the cooked pasta. Fresh pasta will cook quickly, so it’s best added right before serving!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
