Italian Sausage Pasta
Are you ready to indulge in a hearty and satisfying dish? Italian sausage pasta is a classic favorite that combines savory sausage, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce, creating a perfect meal for any occasion. With its robust flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process that will bring this Italian delight to your table!
Ingredients
– 250g pasta (spaghetti or penne)
– 300g Italian sausage (removed from casings)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 onion (chopped)
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 450 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 25g fat, and 3g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, including juices, and bring to a simmer.
- Season with oregano, salt, and pepper; let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with the sausage mixture.
- Toss to combine, allowing the pasta to soak up the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free dish, and fresh tomatoes can replace canned tomatoes for a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine. For a complete meal, serve with steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; always check for al dente.
- Not seasoning the sauce properly can lead to bland flavors.
- Using low-quality sausage can affect the overall taste of the dish.
- Skipping the garlic can diminish the aromatic quality of the sauce.
- Not allowing the sauce to simmer enough can result in a watery consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as turkey or pork. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to match your preference.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and ensure your pasta is egg-free for a vegetarian version.
What’s the best type of pasta for this dish?
While spaghetti is traditional, penne or rigatoni also works well as they hold the sauce nicely.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce while cooking for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Italian sausage pasta is not only delicious but also a quick and easy option for dinner. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a taste of Italy right at home!
Italian Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta spaghetti or penne
- 300 g Italian sausage removed from casings
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 can 400g diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, including juices, and bring to a simmer.
- Season with oregano, salt, and pepper; let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with the sausage mixture.
- Toss to combine, allowing the pasta to soak up the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
