Name: Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with crumbled spicy sausage in a creamy, cheese-infused tomato sauce. This comforting and satisfying recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, offering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between spice, richness, and hearty texture. The spicy Italian sausage adds depth and heat, while the creamy tomato sauce brings a silky, indulgent finish. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to assemble and always crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is both versatile and dependable.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Tomato paste
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta (rigatoni, penne, or your favorite variety)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

directions

Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned.
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for several minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well blended. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, with about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking.

Variations

Mild version: Use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy, and omit red pepper flakes.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Cheesy twist: Stir in mozzarella or fontina for more melty richness.
Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream and dairy-free parmesan for a lactose-free version.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened. This pasta can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Rigatoni, penne, or fusilli are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well.

Is the dish very spicy?

It has moderate heat, but you can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes.

Can I use ground beef or turkey instead?

Yes, but you may need to increase the seasoning to match the flavor of Italian sausage.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or stir in a small amount of grated cheese.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk are suitable alternatives.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of red wine added before the tomato sauce can enhance the depth of flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy?

Be sure to cook it al dente and add it to the sauce right before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate the volume.

What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal that brings comfort and heat to your dinner table. Its creamy tomato base, hearty sausage, and al dente pasta create a rich and robust dish that is always a hit. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or serve it to guests, this recipe is sure to impress and become a household favorite.