Craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This smoked sausage and pasta recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be, resulting in a healthy meal the whole family will love. This recipe is packed with hearty flavors and requires minimal cleanup, making it a winner in our book! Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or your favorite!), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 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 pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
Sauté the Aromatics:
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While the water is heating, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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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.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine and Serve:
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Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions.
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Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sauce and sausage. Toss to combine.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Veggie boost: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Add them to the skillet with the onions.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Different sausage: Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked sausage. Italian sausage or chorizo would also be delicious.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of sausage and pasta used. However, a general estimate per serving is around 400-500 calories, with varying amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This smoked sausage and pasta recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and satisfying. It's a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple in any busy cook's repertoire. Enjoy!