Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta
Are you looking for a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that is both easy to prepare and delightful to the taste buds? Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta is the perfect solution! This dish combines tender penne pasta with rich and flavorful sausage, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta Journey
I remember the first time I made Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something warm and comforting. As the aroma filled our home, my family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the meal. The smiles on their faces as they took their first bites made me realize that this dish would become a family favorite. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory that brings us together.
What Makes This Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity combined with rich flavors. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream, clings beautifully to the penne pasta, while the savory sausage adds a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. It’s a versatile dish too! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Plus, it comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
The Full Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 lb beef sausage (or your preferred sausage)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 2 tsp of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef sausage and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula. If you’d like to add garlic or chopped green peppers, toss them in with the sausage now for extra flavor.
- Before draining the pasta, scoop out about ½ cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Tip: This starchy water helps to thicken the sauce later.
- Once the sausage is fully cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Return the hot skillet to the stovetop and pour in the reserved ½ cup of pasta water to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom with a spatula to mix them into the water.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream to the pan. If you have any additional ingredients, add them now. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning, until it thickens. Tip: Lower the heat if the sauce is bubbling too vigorously.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta evenly. Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pan and mix everything together.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creamy pasta!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta
For a delightful twist, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. You can also add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color. A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, making it a complete meal that is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite sausage or even substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
What can I serve with Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Creamy Sausage Penne Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot For boiling pasta.
- Large Skillet For cooking sausage and making sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 lb beef sausage
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 2 tsp of salt. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef sausage and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula. If you’d like to add garlic or chopped green peppers, toss them in with the sausage now for extra flavor.
- Before draining the pasta, scoop out about ½ cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Tip: This starchy water helps to thicken the sauce later.
- Once the sausage is fully cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Return the hot skillet to the stovetop and pour in the reserved ½ cup of pasta water to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom with a spatula to mix them into the water.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream to the pan. If you have any additional ingredients, add them now. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning, until it thickens. Tip: Lower the heat if the sauce is bubbling too vigorously.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta evenly. Finally, add the cooked sausage back into the pan and mix everything together.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creamy pasta!