Spicy Italian Sausage with Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the heat of spicy sausage, the richness of tomatoes, and the comforting texture of pasta. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner that can be made in just under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

1 lb spicy Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
8 oz pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

In a large skillet, cook the spicy Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the pasta and cooked sausage. Let it cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce, about 10-12 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the dish topped with fresh chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet along with the onion and garlic for more nutrition and flavor.
Use Different Sausage: If you prefer a milder flavor, swap the spicy Italian sausage for sweet Italian sausage or turkey sausage.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce at the end of cooking for a creamy, rich version.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little water or broth to loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much.

10 FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Just chop them finely and cook them down until they create a sauce-like consistency.
Can I use any type of pasta? Yes, any type of pasta works, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I make this dish spicier? Add crushed red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or increase the amount of spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage? Yes, ground turkey can be used in place of sausage, though it will be milder in flavor. You may want to add some Italian seasoning to enhance the taste.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth or water in place of chicken broth. A bit of additional seasoning may be necessary to make up for the flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace the sausage with a vegetarian sausage or omit the meat entirely and add extra vegetables for a veggie-based dish.
Can I add cheese to the sauce? Yes, you can add shredded mozzarella, ricotta, or any cheese of your choice to the sauce to make it richer and more indulgent.
What should I serve with this dish? Serve with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Spicy Italian Sausage with Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week. With its hearty sausage, tender pasta, and savory tomato sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you enjoy it as is or experiment with different variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.