Creamy Tomato, Basil, and Sausage Pasta

Introduction

• If you're searching for a rich, flavorful dinner that feels gourmet but takes less than an hour to make, this Creamy Tomato, Basil, and Sausage Pasta is exactly what you need. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, velvety tomato sauce, and the freshness of basil, it’s the perfect comfort food.

• Whether you're planning a cozy night in or impressing dinner guests, this dish is guaranteed to please every palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• • 1 tbsp olive oil
• • 1 small onion, diced
• • 3 cloves garlic, minced
• • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• • 1/2 cup heavy cream
• • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• • Salt and pepper to taste
• • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
5. Add the cream and sausage: Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the cooked sausage. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot: Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Comforting and indulgent with creamy tomato sauce
• • Quick and easy for a weeknight meal
• • Versatile – swap sausage for ground chicken, turkey, or vegetarian meat
• • Pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a fresh salad

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

• • Don’t overcook your pasta – al dente is key
• • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor
• • Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
• • Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed

Conclusion

• This Creamy Tomato, Basil, and Sausage Pasta is destined to become a go-to favorite. With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and simple prep, it’s everything you want in a comforting Italian dish.

• Whether you're cooking for your family or looking to impress someone special, this pasta delivers delicious results every time. Don’t forget to save leftovers—they taste even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or ziti works great.

2. Is there a dairy-free option?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.

3. How do I make this ahead of time?

Make the sauce in advance and store in the fridge. Cook pasta just before serving for best texture.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Let the pasta cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

5. What sides pair well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a glass of red wine make excellent pairings.