Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta: A Culinary Masterpiece You Can Make Tonight

Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, is renowned for her simple yet elegant recipes that consistently deliver exceptional flavor. Among her many culinary triumphs, her Creamy Sausage Pasta stands out as a weeknight wonder – a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. This recipe is a testament to Ina’s philosophy: using high-quality ingredients and straightforward techniques to create truly memorable meals. Prepare to be transported to a Tuscan trattoria with every bite of this delectable pasta.

## Why This Recipe Works

Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Here’s why it’s a guaranteed success:

* **High-Quality Sausage:** The star of the show! Good quality Italian sausage, preferably sweet or hot depending on your preference, provides a rich, savory foundation. Look for sausage that’s coarsely ground and flavorful.
* **Creamy Tomato Sauce:** The combination of heavy cream, tomato paste, and a touch of vodka creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh basil and parsley add brightness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the cream and sausage.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** A generous grating of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
* **Simple Technique:** Ina Garten emphasizes simple, straightforward techniques. This recipe is easy to follow, even for novice cooks.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best results.

* **1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot, casings removed**
* **1 large yellow onion, chopped**
* **2 cloves garlic, minced**
* **1/4 cup vodka** (optional, but highly recommended)
* **1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes**
* **2 tablespoons tomato paste**
* **1/2 cup heavy cream**
* **1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish**
* **1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish**
* **1 pound rigatoni or other short pasta**
* **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving**
* **Olive oil**
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper**

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to recreate Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta perfectly.

### Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

* Remove the sausage from its casings. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is cooked through and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.

### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

### Step 3: Deglaze with Vodka

* Pour in the vodka (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This deglazing process adds a depth of flavor to the sauce. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.

### Step 4: Build the Sauce

* Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

### Step 5: Cook the Pasta

* While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente – firm to the bite. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

### Step 6: Finish the Sauce

* Stir in the heavy cream, fresh basil, and fresh parsley into the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.

### Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

* Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

### Step 8: Add Parmesan Cheese

* Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil and parsley.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the sauce. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use them sparingly.
* **Don’t Skip the Vodka:** While optional, the vodka adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce. It also helps to deglaze the pan and release the browned bits from the bottom, adding more flavor.
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** The starchy pasta water helps to thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta. Don’t discard it after draining the pasta.
* **Use a Dutch Oven:** Using a dutch oven helps cook the sausage evenly. It also helps contain splatters, which makes cleanup easier.

## Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking:

* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* **Spicy Version:** Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
* **Different Pasta:** Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or orecchiette.
* **Cheese Variations:** Try using Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
* **Add Vegetables:** Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

## Serving Suggestions

Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are healthy and flavorful accompaniments.
* **Caprese Salad:** The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a light and refreshing starter or side dish.

## Make-Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before adding the cooked pasta. You can also cook the pasta ahead of time and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Store the cooked pasta in the refrigerator and reheat it before adding it to the sauce.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover Creamy Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to thin the sauce.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 600-800 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
* Fat: 30-40g
* Protein: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 50-70g

## Ina Garten’s Legacy

Ina Garten’s influence on home cooking is undeniable. Her recipes are approachable, reliable, and consistently delicious. She encourages home cooks to embrace simple techniques and high-quality ingredients, empowering them to create memorable meals for family and friends. Her Creamy Sausage Pasta is just one example of her culinary genius – a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

## Recipe Card

**Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta**

A comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring Italian sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and fresh herbs.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes

**Cook Time:** 30 minutes

**Serves:** 6

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot, casings removed
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup vodka (optional)
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
* 1 pound rigatoni or other short pasta
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Olive oil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper

**Instructions:**

1. Remove sausage from casings. Brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
2. Add onion to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in vodka (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Stir in heavy cream, basil, and parsley into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. Add pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Toss again to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil and parsley.

**Notes:**

* Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
* Don’t overcook the pasta. Cook it until al dente.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

## Final Thoughts

Ina Garten’s Creamy Sausage Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients, bold flavors, and the joy of cooking. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy! This creamy sausage pasta truly embodies the spirit of the Barefoot Contessa, offering a blend of simplicity and sophistication that will leave you wanting more.