This One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta is a delicious, comforting meal that’s quick to make. Try this easy recipe for a hearty pasta dinner tonight.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that comes together in just one pot, this One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta is the answer. It saves time on cleanup and delivers rich Italian flavors with juicy sausage, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or feeding guests without the hassle, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Substitutions you can try: For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta variety. Turkey sausage or plant-based sausage can stand in for pork sausage to lighten the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Remove sausage from casings and crumble into the pot. Cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth; stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the pasta to the pot, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Expert Tips
Use a sturdy pot with a tight-fitting lid to keep the heat and moisture in while the pasta simmers. Adjust the chicken broth amount slightly if using different pasta shapes or brands, as cooking times and liquid absorption vary. To intensify flavor, brown the sausage well before adding the liquids. For extra veggies, stir in chopped bell peppers or spinach when adding the onions.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the pasta looks dry. This dish also freezes well — transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based sausage crumbles, dairy-free cheese, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties; ensure broth is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese, and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Low Spicy: Choose mild Italian sausage or omit red pepper flakes if included.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage? Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with chorizo, breakfast sausage, or turkey sausage for different flavors.
What pasta works best in this recipe? Medium-cut pasta like penne, rigatoni, or ziti hold up well and cook evenly in the pot.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking? Stir occasionally during cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid to keep the pasta submerged.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! It reheats well and can be portioned out for several meals.
How do I make One Pot Italian Sausage Pasta creamier? Add more heavy cream or cheese at the end for extra creaminess, or finish with a splash of reserved pasta cooking liquid.
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