This easy one-pot creamy sausage pasta is a lifesaver for busy nights! With just a few ingredients, you’ll enjoy rich flavors without much fuss.
NNothing’s better than a meal that cooks all in one pot. Cleanup is a breeze! I like to throw in some spinach or peas for a splash of color. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish, offering wonderful flavor. You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. A great substitute is turkey sausage for a lighter option or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian take.
Heavy Cream: It gives the pasta its rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even almond milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick, but it’s still tasty!
Pasta: While the recipe calls for penne, you can swap in other pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini. For gluten-free options, try rice or corn-based pasta. Just ensure cooking times are adjusted according to the pasta used.
Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds that lovely umami flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works well. For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can do the trick, though the texture will differ slightly.
How Do You Get the Pasta Perfectly Cooked in One Pot?
Getting the pasta just right involves careful simmering. Start by boiling the chicken broth before adding the uncooked pasta. Keep the heat at medium-low once the pasta is in to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness 2 minutes before the package instructions say to simmer.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s tender, add a splash more broth or water.
That’s the key to a creamy and delicious one-pot dish without overcooking the pasta! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Easy One-Pot Creamy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (only if needed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach or peas
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll need around 5-7 minutes to prepare the ingredients and cook the sausage, another 15 minutes to simmer the pasta, and a couple more minutes to create that delicious creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the crumbled Italian sausage. Cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much grease, feel free to drain some away! This will help keep your dish from being too greasy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the sausage in the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft, around 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Add Broth and Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta and the dried Italian seasoning. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, which should take about 12-15 minutes.
4. Make It Creamy:
After the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking while stirring until the sauce is nice and creamy and coats the pasta well. This should take just 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Greens:
If you’re using spinach or peas, this is the perfect time to stir them in. Cook for another 2 minutes until they are wilted or heated through.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Right before serving, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a beautiful touch.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting one-pot sausage pasta! This dish is quick to prepare and will surely delight everyone at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use any type you like, such as chicken sausage for a lighter version, or turkey sausage for a lower-fat alternative. You can also try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian meal!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well as a substitute for heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I Make This Pasta in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta ahead of time! Cook it as instructed, then let it cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy sausage pasta is a hearty meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. Roasted vegetables would also make a delicious pairing!
