Sausage Pasta
Dive into the world of comfort food with this delicious sausage pasta recipe. It’s a perfect blend of juicy sausage, al dente pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Get ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
– 250g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
– 300g sausage (Italian or your choice)
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 300g) contains about 450 calories, 20g of protein, 15g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 5g of fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and add to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into pieces.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet.
- Season with oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious sausage pasta!
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or swap pasta for zucchini noodles for a low-carb version. Additionally, any canned tomatoes can be replaced with fresh tomatoes.
Serving and Pairings
This sausage pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Ensure the sausage is fully cooked to avoid any health issues.
- Be careful with seasoning; taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it adds essential flavor.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for enough time to develop flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Experiment with different types of sausages for varied flavors.
- Save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
FAQs
Can I use any type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage is traditional, but chicken, turkey, or even veggie sausage work well.
How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add more chili flakes or even a diced jalapeño to the sauce for an extra kick.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions for added nutrition and flavor.
What type of pasta is best for sausage pasta?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, and then cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Sausage pasta is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a go-to for any pasta lover. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta penne or rigatoni
- 300 g sausage Italian or your choice
- 1 can 400g crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp chili flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and add to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into pieces.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet.
- Season with oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious sausage pasta!
