Description
This creamy sausage pasta is a quick and cozy dish made with tender pasta, flavorful sausage, and a silky cream sauce. It’s the kind of weeknight comfort food that feels fancy without the effort — simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
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8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
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Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and chili flakes, and cook for another minute.
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Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
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Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat everything through.
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Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or extra cheese.
Notes
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Want it lighter? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
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You can use chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage too.
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Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.