This hearty and flavorful dish is a quick, satisfying meal made in just one pot. Juicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce come together beautifully for a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love It
- Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one pot for easy prep and cleanup.
- Bold Flavors: Italian sausage, garlic, and herbs make this dish irresistible.
- Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Italian Sausage: 1 pound, casings removed (mild or spicy).
- Pasta: 12 oz of short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well).
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
- Tomato Sauce: 2 cups of marinara sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 3 cups (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor).
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup for creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated, plus extra for garnish.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional).
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish.
How to Make One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Add the dry pasta directly into the pot. Stir to ensure it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the pasta for a burst of freshness.
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.
Pro Tips
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Cheesy Twist: Top with shredded mozzarella and broil for a bubbly, cheesy finish.
- Spice It Up: Use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
This One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta is a true comfort food classic that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Serve it with a fresh side salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal!
