Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, hearty pasta dishes, and a touch of heat, this Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. This dish combines smoky, spicy sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into one unforgettable meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough to impress guests.

With layers of flavor from aromatic garlic, tangy tomatoes, and rich cream, this pasta strikes the perfect balance between spicy and savory. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners but also special enough for a weekend indulgence. Let’s dive into the details of creating this flavor-packed dish!

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 4-5 minutes).
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
2. Season with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sausage

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese on top.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Spicy Sausage Pasta

1. Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Opt for spicy Italian sausage for an authentic kick, or use chorizo for a smoky twist.
2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra fire.
3. Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and adds a creamy texture to the sauce.
4. Use Quality Pasta: High-quality pasta holds up better in the sauce and provides a more satisfying texture.
5. Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water is essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.

Variations

1. Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
2. Make it Lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
3. Swap the Pasta: Try it with whole-grain pasta, zucchini noodles, or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
4. Cheese Lovers: Add a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for an extra cheesy dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad pairs beautifully with the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting, indulgent meal.
• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine like Zinfandel or Syrah complements the spicy flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

1. High Protein: The sausage and Parmesan cheese provide a substantial amount of protein.
2. Rich in Vitamins: Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
3. Customizable Carbs: Using alternative pasta options can make this dish lower in carbs or gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers who enjoy a bit of heat. It’s comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make in just one pot. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a solo dinner, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.

So grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as indulgent as it is effortless. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use mild sausage instead of spicy sausage?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage and adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

3. Is there a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

4. Can I add other proteins?
Sure! Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added to complement or replace the sausage.

5. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well.

Yield: 4

Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe

Print

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, hearty pasta dishes, and a touch of heat, this Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. This dish combines smoky, spicy sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into one unforgettable meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough to impress guests.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta or any short pasta
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess grease if needed.
   
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
   
3. Add Spices and Liquid:
   Stir in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
   
4. Cook the Pasta:
   Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
   
5. Finish with Cheese:
   Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
   
6. Serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Notes

• Make it Milder: Use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy if you prefer less heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.