Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Penne Pasta and Sausage recipe is your new go-to for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. It's packed with bold Italian flavors, hearty sausage, and tender penne pasta – everything you need for a comforting and satisfying dinner. Get ready to elevate your weeknight cooking with this simple yet impressive dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a delicious example of healthy meals that are also easy recipes to follow.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!) removed from casings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
Cook the sausage:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This step builds fantastic flavor and texture for this homemade cooking masterpiece.
Build the sauce:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cook the pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Combine and serve:
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sausage sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them with the onions for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates, with a moderate amount of fat, depending on the type of sausage used. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of your ingredients.
This Penne Pasta and Sausage recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or a comforting family meal. Enjoy!