Description
Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta
A herb-infused pasta dish featuring a creamy sauce and savory sausage!
Ingredients:
300g penne pasta
300g sausage, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
Cook pasta and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Sauté sausage, then add thyme and oregano. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth.
Simmer for 5 minutes and toss in pasta.
Stir in Parmesan and adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
Garnish with basil and serve.
Perfect for herb lovers!
#HerbCreamyPasta
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof creamy sausage penne.
- Prep and Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 300g penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, carefully reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 300g of sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned. No extra oil is typically needed.
- Build the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tsp dried thyme and 1 tsp dried oregano to the sausage, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom.
- Simmer and Thicken: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or asparagus.
How-to Summary
Cook pasta, reserve water. Brown sausage, add herbs, then cream and broth. Simmer to thicken. Toss with pasta and Parmesan, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle all work well with this chunky sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta, as the pasta will absorb the sauce if stored together.
Is the pasta water really necessary? Yes! The starchy water is the secret to a silky, restaurant-quality sauce that perfectly clings to the pasta.
What kind of sausage is best? Italian sausage (mild or hot) is ideal for its seasoning. Smoked sausage or kielbasa also work for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook only to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: This is crucial for achieving the right creamy, emulsified sauce texture.
- Adding Cheese Over High Heat: Always remove the pan from heat before stirring in the Parmesan to prevent it from becoming grainy or clumpy.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly and has superior flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy sausage penne pasta is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce is consistently satisfying. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a versatile dish that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the rich, herb-infused flavors and the simplicity of this classic recipe.
