Cheesy Sausage Pasta: A Comfort Food Delight

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful? Look no further than cheesy sausage pasta! This recipe combines savory Italian sausage, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will leave you wanting more. It’s an easy weeknight meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

## Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Pasta

* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of sausage, herbs, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors.
* **Comfort Food:** Warm, cheesy, and satisfying – it’s the ultimate comfort food.
* **Versatile:** Customize it with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.
* **Family-Friendly:** Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy pasta dish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Pasta:** 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (penne, rigatoni, rotini, or shells work well)
* **Italian Sausage:** 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot, removed from casings)
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons
* **Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup
* **Chicken Broth:** 1/2 cup
* **Italian Seasoning:** 2 teaspoons
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 1 1/2 cups, shredded
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated, plus more for serving
* **Fresh Basil:** Chopped, for garnish (optional)
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons

## Equipment

* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Large skillet
* Colander
* Cheese grater
* Cutting board
* Knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, and refers to pasta that is cooked but still firm when bitten. This is important to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the sauce.
3. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Pasta water is starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta. This will significantly improve the texture of your dish.
4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

### Step 2: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage (removed from its casing) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Make sure there are no pink spots remaining.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.

### Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

### Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Cooking the tomato paste helps to deepen its flavor.
2. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and cheese will also add salt, so start with a little and adjust as needed.

### Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
3. Add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

### Step 6: Serve

1. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil (if desired) and extra grated Parmesan cheese.

## Tips for the Best Cheesy Sausage Pasta

* **Use high-quality sausage:** The flavor of the sausage is crucial to the overall taste of the dish. Choose a sausage that you enjoy, whether it’s sweet, mild, or hot.
* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Overcooked pasta will become mushy and detract from the texture of the dish. Cook the pasta al dente.
* **Reserve pasta water:** Pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a creamy and emulsified sauce. Don’t skip this step!
* **Grate your own cheese:** Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a creamier sauce.
* **Adjust the seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.
* **Add vegetables:** Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this dish. Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini are all great additions.
* **Make it spicy:** If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or asiago.
* **Bake it:** For an extra layer of cheesiness, transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

## Variations

* **Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein.
* **Spicy:** Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes.
* **Creamy Pesto:** Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto to the sauce for a burst of fresh flavor.
* **Baked:** Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with extra mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
* **Chicken Sausage:** Substitute Italian chicken sausage for pork sausage for a leaner option.
* **Vodka Sauce:** Replace the diced tomatoes and some of the chicken broth with vodka sauce for a creamy and flavorful twist.

## Serving Suggestions

Cheesy sausage pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread.

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the richness of the pasta.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are healthy and flavorful side dishes.
* **Caesar Salad:** A classic Caesar salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce. You can also assemble the entire dish and bake it later.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover cheesy sausage pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?**

A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rigatoni, rotini, shells, and farfalle are all good choices.

**Q: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?**

A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the sausage. Just make sure to drain off any excess grease after browning the beef.

**Q: Can I freeze cheesy sausage pasta?**

A: Yes, you can freeze cheesy sausage pasta, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the pasta and sauce separately. To freeze, let the pasta and sauce cool completely. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags. The pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, and the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?**

A: To prevent the pasta from sticking together, make sure to cook it in plenty of salted water and stir it occasionally while it’s cooking. After draining the pasta, toss it with a little olive oil or the sauce to prevent it from sticking together.

**Q: Can I add cream cheese to the sauce?**

A: Yes, you can add cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess. Add about 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce after it has simmered for 10-15 minutes. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

**Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?**

A: While heavy cream provides a richer and thicker sauce, you can substitute milk if you prefer a lighter option. Use whole milk for the best results. You may need to simmer the sauce for a longer time to allow it to thicken.

**Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?**

A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes. You’ll need about 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Peel, seed, and chop the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. You may also need to add a little tomato paste to thicken the sauce.

**Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?**

A: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

**Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?**

A: To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free sausage (check the label), dairy-free cream (such as cashew cream or coconut cream), and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Note that dairy-free cheese may not melt as smoothly as regular cheese.

**Q: What wine pairs well with cheesy sausage pasta?**

A: A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti, pairs well with cheesy sausage pasta. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, is also a good choice.

## Cheesy Sausage Pasta Recipe

This Cheesy Sausage Pasta recipe is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor from Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes

**Cook Time:** 30 minutes

**Total Time:** 45 minutes

**Yield:** 6 servings

**Category:** Pasta

**Cuisine:** Italian

### Ingredients:

* 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, rotini, or shells)
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

### Instructions:

1. **Cook Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. **Brown Sausage:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.

3. **Sauté Onion and Garlic:** In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. **Make Sauce:** Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. **Combine:** Add cooked sausage back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in cooked pasta and toss to coat. Add mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

6. **Serve:** Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil (if desired) and extra grated Parmesan cheese.

### Nutrition Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

* Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Enjoy this Cheesy Sausage Pasta recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature version.

## More Pasta Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this cheesy sausage pasta recipe, here are a few other pasta recipes you might like:

* **Spaghetti Carbonara:** A classic Italian pasta dish with eggs, pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
* **Cacio e Pepe:** A simple yet flavorful pasta dish with Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and pasta water.
* **Pesto Pasta:** Pasta tossed with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
* **Baked Ziti:** A comforting baked pasta dish with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and tomato sauce.
* **Lasagna:** A classic Italian layered pasta dish with meat sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

## Conclusion

Cheesy sausage pasta is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory sausage, rich tomato sauce, and generous helping of cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!