Italian Sausage Pasta in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Italian Sausage Pasta in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With tender pasta coated in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce and packed with flavorful Italian sausage, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Add spinach or arugula for a touch of freshness, and you’ve got a complete, irresistible meal.

What Is Italian Sausage Pasta in Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

This dish combines al dente pasta, juicy Italian sausage, and a luscious cream-based Parmesan sauce. The addition of garlic and Italian seasoning infuses every bite with robust flavors. Optional ingredients like red pepper flakes and fresh greens allow you to customize the dish to your liking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cook time.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and full of savory sausage goodness.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add veggies for a personalized touch.
• One-Pan Sauce: Simplifies cleanup while delivering restaurant-quality flavor.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta: Penne or rigatoni work best.
• 1 lb Italian sausage: Choose mild or spicy, with casings removed.
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced.
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes: Optional, for added heat.
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula: Optional, for a fresh touch.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Cooking the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix it into the sauce.
2. Add the drained pasta, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. If using spinach or arugula, add it now and let it wilt into the pasta.

Serving

1. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• A glass of dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Freezing Instructions

• While the sauce can be frozen, the cream may separate upon reheating. To avoid this, freeze the cooked sausage and pasta separately and prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
• Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or peas for more nutrients.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be less rich. For better results, mix milk with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken it.

What other cheeses can I use?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used as substitutes or mixed with Parmesan for added depth.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the sausage and prepare the sauce in advance, then store them separately. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving.

Italian Sausage Pasta in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a flavorful, creamy dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it out and let us know how it turned out for you!

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