Looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s fast, family-friendly, and tastes like it came from a restaurant? This Easy Italian Sausage Pasta is the answer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe features perfectly browned Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, a bold tomato-based sauce, and pasta that soaks in every delicious bite.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or prepping a cozy weekend dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor without the fuss. It’s flexible, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Ready in 30 minutes
✅ Uses simple pantry ingredients
✅ Customizable with cream, veggies, or different pasta shapes
✅ Perfect for meal prep or freezer meals
✅ Comfort food the whole family will devour
📋 Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Optional Add-Ins:
- Heavy cream or mascarpone for a creamy finish
- Sundried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture
- Zucchini or kale for extra nutrition
💡 Pro Tip: Swap Italian pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly option.
🍳 Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for pasta
- Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Knife and cutting board
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it into small chunks using a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink—about 5–7 minutes. Transfer sausage to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add red bell pepper and cook another 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Return sausage to the skillet. Add diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Combine & Toss
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to thin the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
Step 6: Finish & Garnish
Stir in fresh basil. Serve hot in wide bowls with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add a drizzle of olive oil or crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce
- Crisp Green Salad: Try arugula or a simple Caesar salad
- Red Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti, Zinfandel, or Merlot complements the richness
- Family-Style Tip: Serve straight from the skillet on the table with a big spoon—just like Nonna would!
🔁 Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
- Cool completely and store in an airtight container
- Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months
To Reheat:
- Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water
- Microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through
🔄 Easy Recipe Variations
- Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or 2 tbsp mascarpone at the end
- Spicy Arrabbiata Style: Double the red pepper flakes and add a pinch of chili powder
- Loaded Veggie Version: Add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or kale
- Baked Casserole: Layer pasta in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 15 mins
- One-Pot Method: Cook pasta in the same skillet by adding 2 cups broth and 2 cups water to the sauce—simmer until pasta is tender
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the Pasta: Aim for al dente—soft but still firm.
❌ Skipping Reserved Pasta Water: It’s the secret to a silky, clingy sauce.
❌ Using Pre-Grated Cheese: It contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability.
❌ Not Browning Sausage Properly: Color = flavor. Let it sear for rich, caramelized depth.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage works well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta reheats beautifully. Prepare ahead and refrigerate or freeze.
Is this dish spicy?
Only slightly. To adjust heat, increase or reduce red pepper flakes.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—just use a larger skillet and double all ingredients.
🧮 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Based on 6 servings. Nutrition varies by sausage and pasta type.
⭐ Expert Tips for Better Flavor
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine after browning sausage for added depth
- Use fresh basil at the end for a burst of freshness
- Finish with lemon zest for brightness, especially in creamy versions
- Make it a full meal by adding white beans or sautéed kale into the sauce
💡 Final Thoughts
This Easy Italian Sausage Pasta is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a comforting classic that you’ll crave week after week. By combining the bold flavors of sausage, the freshness of herbs, and the richness of tomatoes, this dish achieves perfect balance in every bite.
Feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite veggies, dialing up the spice, or tossing in cream. However you serve it, one thing is guaranteed—your family will ask for seconds!
