Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a bold, creamy, and downright irresistible pasta that comes together in less than 30 minutes, this Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is about to become your new weeknight staple! Featuring sizzling hot Italian sausage, a luscious tomato cream sauce, and plenty of fresh basil, every bite packs so much flavor that you’ll wonder how something so simple can taste so special.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is that it relies on just a handful of real, everyday ingredients – but each one brings something crucial, whether it’s creaminess, a pop of color, or a kick of heat. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Penne Pasta: Its ridges catch all that dreamy sauce; swap with rigatoni or ziti if needed!
• Hot Italian Sausages: Look for quality sausage with plenty of spice and flavor; it’s the star of your dish.
• Fresh Garlic: For beautiful depth and that irresistible aroma the moment it hits the pan.
• Chicken Broth or White Wine: Both deglaze the pan and add savory or subtle acidity to balance the sauce.
• Flour: Just a touch thickens the sauce into a silky coating for every noodle.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: They bring juicy sweetness and a gentle tang—opt for fire-roasted if you like smoky notes.
• Heavy Cream: Brings the luscious, rich texture that makes this pasta luxuriously comforting.
• Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these classic seasonings! Add to taste to balance and bring the flavors alive.
• Fresh Basil: Gorgeous for color, aroma, and that peppery herbal pop right at the end.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: The crowning touch! It adds a salty, nutty finish and ties everything together.

Variations

One of the most delightful things about making Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is how flexible it can be! Don’t be afraid to play around depending on what’s in your fridge or what your family loves best.

• Mild Sausage or Turkey Sausage: Swap the hot Italian sausage for mild or even turkey-based options for a lighter or less spicy version.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or your favorite pasta alternative to keep it celiac-friendly without losing flavor.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or sautéed bell peppers for extra nutrition, color, and a little added sweetness or crunch.
• Extra Kick: Toss in a good pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic if you crave an extra spicy pasta experience.

How to Make Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook your penne until just al dente (check the package instructions for timing). You want the pasta to have a slight bite since it’ll finish in the sauce, soaking up all that delicious flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta cooks, remove the sausage meat from its casings and crumble it directly into a large skillet. Let it cook over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Set the sausage aside, and drain off most – but not all! – of the rendered fat for flavor.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and let it sizzle for just a minute to bloom the aroma. Pour in the chicken broth (or wine) and whisk in the flour, making sure to scrape up all those golden brown sausage bits stuck to the bottom of the pan — this is pure flavor gold! Let simmer until reduced and slightly thickened, just a minute or two.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes and their juices, followed by the luscious heavy cream and the browned sausage. Let everything bubble away for a few minutes until the sauce is thickened, rich, and inviting, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Right before serving, toss in the torn basil leaves for that fresh herbal lift, then combine your drained pasta with the sauce, mixing so every piece is well-coated. Dish it up and sprinkle generously with freshly grated parmesan for the final flourish!

How to Serve Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Garnishes

Set the scene with a tumble of torn basil leaves and an extra flurry of freshly grated parmesan right on top. If you love a little heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil makes every bite sing—these small touches bring restaurant-style flair to your Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta.

Side Dishes

A big green salad, tossed with a sharp vinaigrette, perfectly balances the creaminess of the sauce. Crusty garlic bread is the classic go-to for mopping up every last drop, but roasted broccoli or a platter of marinated olives also pair wonderfully with the spicy, savory notes of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style approach, serve the Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta piled high in a large bowl at the center of the table. If you’d like to impress guests, consider plating each portion in shallow pasta bowls, garnished with parmesan shards and nestled basil sprigs—it turns a weeknight dinner into a trattoria-worthy experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta stores beautifully! Pop cooled pasta and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate—it’s best enjoyed within 3 days. For ultimate freshness, store the sauce and pasta separately if you know you’ll be saving some for later.

Freezing

The sauce (without the pasta) freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and label with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a speedy dinner—just boil fresh pasta and toss together!

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftover pasta and sauce in a skillet over low-medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce—this keeps everything perfectly creamy. The microwave works for quick single servings, but a stovetop refresh does the texture the most justice.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been wishing for a pasta night that feels both easy and truly special, this Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is the answer. Try it for a cozy evening in, and get ready for smiles all around—because nothing brings people together quite like a steaming bowl of saucy, spicy goodness!

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