If you are struggling to get dinners on the table and looking for something your entire family will eat, this creamy sausage pasta is the perfect solution. Instead of chicken breasts or ground beef (probably the two most commonly used protein-staples for most households), we’re amping up the flavor with some mild Italian sausage combined with a creamy pasta sauce. I’m not claiming this is classic Italian cuisine, but it sure tastes like some of the dishes I’ve enjoyed when we have traveled throughout Italy. It’s rustic and unpretentious and just loaded with the good stuff like fresh basil, nutty parmesan, plenty of garlic, and savory sausage. Whether you prefer spicy Italian sausage or a milder version, this recipe can accommodate a variety of flavor preferences. For more delicious sausage pasta recipes, check out my Creamy Sausage Gnocchi, Sausage Rigatoni Pasta, Cajun Pasta with Sausage and Peppers, Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage, and Pepperoni Pizza Casserole!
Why We Love This Recipe
It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of common ingredients and minimal prep time. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese sauce coats the pasta perfectly and brings everything together. You can use any kind of pasta you have on hand (penne or casarecce are our two most frequently used choices), and the dish can be easily customized with different types of sausage or added vegetables like sliced mushrooms or asparagus.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Pasta (Penne or Casarecce) – These pasta shapes hold the sauce well and provide a hearty bite. Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor. Chopped Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Minced Garlic Cloves – Provides a robust, aromatic flavor. Mild or Sweet Italian Sausage – Savory Italian sausage is the key ingredient, offering a savory and slightly spicy kick. If you can find it, the loose Italian sausage is great because you don’t have to peel off the casings. Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and a subtle chicken flavor to the sauce. Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a bit of heat and depth. Bay Leaves – Infuses the sauce with a subtle, earthy flavor. Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce. Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Fresh Basil Leaves – Provides a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe
Tips for Success
Using high-quality ingredients can make a big difference in the flavor of your dish. Freshly grated parmesan cheese, good quality sausage, and fresh basil will elevate the taste of your creamy sausage pasta. Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Al dente pasta will hold up better and provide a nice texture contrast to the creamy sauce. When you drain the pasta, save a cup of the pasta water. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can use the pasta water to loosen it up and achieve the desired consistency. I almost never need it with this particular dish, but it’s good to have on hand in case. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Sometimes a little extra salt, pepper, or parmesan can make all the difference in bringing the flavors together.
Substitutions and Variations
Use any kind of pasta shape you prefer, like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. If you prefer a spicy sausage pasta dish, try using hot Italian sausage or adding a dash of red pepper flakes. Swap out the Italian sausage for fennel sausage, ground sausage meat, or even chorizo for a different flavor profile. Add in your favorite vegetables like red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh spinach to make the dish more nutritious and colorful. Substitute fresh basil with other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano.
More Creamy Pasta Recipes You’ll Love
Lemon Tarragon Pasta Salad Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Seafood Pasta Salad One Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic & Mushroom Sauce Instant Pot Creamy Penne Alfredo
Garlic bread is always a great option to serve alongside pasta dishes. The crunchy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and helps to mop up any extra sauce on your plate. Steamed or sautéed green beans are another excellent side. Their fresh, slightly crunchy texture complements the tender pasta and creamy sauce nicely.
