Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the bold taste of Italian sausage with a rich tomato-based sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner with family and friends. With its spicy kick and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavor-packed – The combination of spicy Italian sausage, garlic, and a creamy tomato sauce ensures every bite is delicious.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level, add veggies, or swap out pasta types to suit your preference.
- One-pot meal – Minimal cleanup means less time spent in the kitchen.
- Great for leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Italian sausage (spicy or mild, based on preference)
- Olive oil
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Crushed tomatoes
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Pasta of choice (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well)
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Red pepper flakes
- Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add diced onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add the cream: Pour in heavy cream and stir well, letting it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve and enjoy: Dish up the pasta while hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Make it milder: Use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy.
- Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
- Swap the pasta: Try whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
- Cheesy twist: Add shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Extra spice: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on the sausage and red pepper flakes used. You can adjust the heat by using mild sausage or reducing the red pepper flakes.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape works well. Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine are great options.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and mix it in.
How can I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cream, or add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini.
What can I serve with this pasta?
Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, but add extra seasoning to compensate for the missing sausage spices.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
No, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add extra broth or a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Conclusion
Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you prefer it extra spicy, loaded with veggies, or with a cheesy twist, this recipe is highly customizable. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta tonight!
PrintSpicy Italian Sausage Pasta
This Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! Made with spicy Italian sausage, garlic, tomatoes, and a touch of cream, it’s the perfect balance of heat and comfort. Serve it with fresh parmesan and basil for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté the Aromatics – Add red pepper flakes, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce – Stir in oregano, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Cream & Cheese – Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Combine & Serve – Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot!
Notes
Use mild Italian sausage if you prefer less heat.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Add spinach or roasted bell peppers for extra veggies.