Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta
If you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to put together, look no further than our Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta. This dish combines creamy sauce with savory Italian sausage and a touch of spice, making it a perfect dinner for any night of the week. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes!
Why You’ll Love It
This pasta recipe is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors that everyone will adore. It uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand and is customizable for various spice levels. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (substitute shallots if preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (garlic powder can work in a pinch)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream (coconut cream for dairy-free option)
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook Italian sausage, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and the heavy cream. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, then fold in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve topped with fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy immediately.
Expert Tips
Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente holds up best against the creamy sauce. Use good quality Italian sausage to maximize flavor. If you want a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes gradually. For make-ahead, prepare the sauce and reheat gently with pasta before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles, use coconut or cashew cream, and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties available at most stores.
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with canned coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Lower Fat: Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought Italian sausage for Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta?
- Yes, store-bought Italian sausage works perfectly. You can use sweet or spicy depending on your preference.
- How spicy is Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta?
- It has a mild to medium heat depending on the sausage and the optional crushed red pepper. You can adjust spice levels easily.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and reheated when ready. Add pasta just before serving.
- What kind of pasta works best in this recipe?
- Penne, rigatoni, or any tubular pasta are ideal to hold the creamy sauce well.
- Is Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta good for weeknight dinners?
- Absolutely! This recipe is quick, simple, and satisfying for any busy weeknight.
Call to Action
Try this Marry Me Italian Sausage Pasta tonight and let us know how it turned out! Share your tips, rate the recipe, and save it for your next dinner idea. Don’t forget to explore more Easy Weeknight Dinners and check out the latest from Food Network for more inspiration.
