Craving a hearty and flavorful meal? Look no further than our penne pasta and Italian sausage recipe. This classic dish is a perfect blend of pasta, savory sausage, and a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your taste buds.
The combination of penne pasta, Italian sausage, and tomato sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. The penne pasta provides a sturdy base for the flavorful sauce, while the Italian sausage adds a savory and slightly spicy kick. The tomato sauce brings it all together with its rich, tangy flavor.
This penne pasta and Italian sausage dish is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a more formal dinner party. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ve got a meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make this penne pasta and Italian sausage recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
In addition to the ingredients, you’ll also need the following equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
How to Make
To make this penne pasta and Italian sausage dish, follow these steps:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Add the tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until thickened.
- Combine the sausage and pasta: Add the cooked sausage and pasta to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Serve: Serve the penne pasta and Italian sausage immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips and Possible Variations
Here are a few tips for making the best penne pasta and Italian sausage dish:
- Use a good quality Italian sausage. This will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
- If you don’t have time to simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, you can cook it for a shorter amount of time. However, the longer you simmer the sauce, the more flavorful it will be.
Here are a few possible variations of the penne pasta and Italian sausage dish:
- Add some chopped vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as rigatoni or ziti.
- Add some cream or milk to the sauce for a richer flavor.
The combinations are endless, so feel free to experiment and create your own favorite penne pasta and Italian sausage dish. This recipe is a great starting point for creating a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, we guarantee that this penne pasta and Italian sausage recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. The dish is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table.
