Pasta night was always a special event in my family, and this creamy Italian sausage pasta was one of my grandmother’s go-to dishes. The combination of rich, savory sausage, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this a true comfort food classic. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that tastes like it came from an Italian trattoria.
If you love creamy and comforting pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this Smoked Sausage Pasta, which offers a smoky twist on this Italian favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Creamy – The luscious sauce clings to every bite, making it irresistibly satisfying.
✔ Packed with Flavor – Italian sausage, garlic, and Parmesan bring a bold, savory taste.
✔ Quick & Easy – This meal comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
✔ Family-Friendly – A dish that kids and adults will both adore.
✔ Versatile – You can customize it with different ingredients or spice levels to suit your taste.
Looking for another creamy pasta option? Check out this Garlic Parmesan Pasta for an ultra-smooth and buttery alternative.
If you’re looking for more comforting pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta, which offers a delightful kick and robust flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Sausage Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup white wine (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for freshness)
For Garnish:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove the sausage and set aside, keeping some drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, sauté onions for 3 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine, scraping up any browned bits, and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for 5 minutes, thickening slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
- Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.
- Stir in baby spinach, letting it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
For another creamy pasta option, consider trying this Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta, known for its savory sausage and delicious Parmesan sauce, ready in just 20 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Plate the pasta and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
For another creamy pasta recipe with a bold twist, try this Blackened Chicken Alfredo a spicy take on the classic Alfredo.
Variations & Substitutions
✅ Make It Spicy – Use hot Italian sausage and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes.
✅ Go Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk.
✅ Try Different Pasta – Use rigatoni, penne, fettuccine, or orecchiette.
✅ Add Veggies – Stir in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients.
✅ Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and check the sausage ingredients.
✅ Use a Different Protein – Try chicken, shrimp, or pancetta instead of sausage.
Storage & Reheating
How to Store:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (sauce may slightly separate).
How to Reheat:
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a splash of cream, broth, or milk.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Wine Pairing – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes – Serve with a fresh green salad with balsamic dressing.
Bread Pairing – Enjoy with garlic bread or a warm baguette.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and store separately. When ready to serve, heat the sauce and toss with fresh pasta.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little butter or cornstarch to thicken it.
3. What can I use instead of wine?
Substitute extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
4. What cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but Pecorino Romano adds a sharper bite.
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni) cooked al dente
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage crumbled and browned
- 1 cup heavy cream for creaminess
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning for extra flavor
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes, then serve hot!
Notes
Final Thoughts
This creamy Italian sausage pasta is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners. Try it today and let me know how you liked it!
