Description
Spicy Sausage Rotini Pasta
Ingredients:
12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups sliced smoked sausage (chorizo or kielbasa)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook until golden and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and soft, about 3–4 minutes.
Make the Sauce:
Add marinara sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce evenly.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy, smoky flavors!
Chef’s Tip: For an extra creamy twist, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving.
This hearty pasta dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with just the right kick of spice!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Pasta Perfection: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the rotini and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Brown the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply browned and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
3. Build the Flavor Base: Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Final Combine: Add the drained pasta and browned sausage back to the skillet. Toss vigorously to coat. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta family-style in a large bowl or directly from the skillet. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, add a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Chianti, complements the smoky, spicy flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Boil salted water and cook rotini until al dente. Brown sliced sausage in a skillet, then set aside. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pan. Add marinara, broth, and spices to create the sauce. Simmer, then combine with the cooked pasta and sausage. Finish with Parmesan and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are excellent substitutes that hold sauce well.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. The smoked paprika provides flavor without significant heat.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.
Can I use Italian sausage instead of smoked sausage? Yes, but ensure you remove it from its casing and cook it thoroughly, breaking it into crumbles. The flavor profile will be different but delicious.
Is the heavy cream addition necessary? No, it’s an optional chef’s tip for a richer, creamier sauce. The dish is complete and flavorful without it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce. Do not skip browning the sausage properly; this step builds foundational flavor. Ensure you deglaze the pan by scraping the browned bits when adding the liquid, as they are packed with taste. Finally, do not add the Parmesan cheese directly to the hot skillet while cooking, as it can become clumpy; always sprinkle it on at the end.
Conclusion
This Spicy Sausage Rotini Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and flavorful weeknight meal. The combination of smoky sausage, a tangy, spiced tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is both comforting and exciting. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can easily master this crowd-pleasing dish. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite additions or adjustments to make it your own. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!