Sausage Pasta
This Sausage Pasta is a homage to the rustic flavors of Italy. Combining hearty sausage with velvety pasta, infused with aromatic herbs, this dish offers a comforting yet sophisticated dining experience. The secret lies in the harmonious balance of flavors and textures, creating a meal that's both decadent and satisfying.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil - extra virgin for best flavor
400 grams Italian sausage - medium spicy, casings removed
1 cup onion - finely chopped
3 cloves garlic - minced
1 can crushed tomatoes - 400 grams, preferably San Marzano
1 teaspoon dried oregano - fresh can also be used
1 teaspoon fennel seeds - lightly toasted
1 cup heavy cream - or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option- 300 grams pasta - such as penne or rigatoni
½ cup Parmesan cheese - freshly grated
¼ cup basil - fresh, torn for garnish
1 pinch salt - to taste, adjust seasoning
1 pinch ground black pepper - to taste, adjust seasoning
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, approximately 5–6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season with oregano, fennel seeds, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Stir the heavy cream into the sauce and let it heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and add the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently to combine. To serve, garnish with fresh basil and a final drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Notes
For added flavor depth, allow the flavors in the sauce to meld for an hour off-heat before reheating to serve. Substitute sausage with chicken for a lighter version.
Nutrition
Calories: 736kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 23gFat: 64gSaturated Fat: 28gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 26gCholesterol: 154mgSodium: 1469mgPotassium: 943mgFiber: 4gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 1618IUVitamin C: 21mgCalcium: 243mgIron: 4mg
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