Pasta with Sweet Sausage Tomato and Basil
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Pasta with Sweet Sausage, Tomato, and Basil recipe! Featuring al dente penne or rigatoni tossed in a rich, savory tomato sauce infused with the smoky sweetness of Italian sausage, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. The addition of fresh basil and a hint of sugar balances the tangy crushed tomatoes, while garlic and Parmesan cheese add depth and creaminess. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy-to-make pasta is perfect for busy evenings and pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or craving comfort food, this recipe delivers bold flavors that will satisfy every palate. Ideal for lovers of Italian cuisine, this hearty meal is your new go-to for a flavorful feast!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 lb Sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 28 oz Crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 0.5 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
- 4 qt Water for boiling pasta
- 1 tbsp Salt for pasta water
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water (4 quarts) to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it into small chunks with a wooden spoon or spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the sausage and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to the sauce, adjusting seasoning to taste. Simmer the sauce gently for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir the chopped fresh basil into the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
608 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.0 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.5 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 83 mg | 28% | |
| Sodium | 2910 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.3 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.5 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.5 g | ||
| Protein | 29.1 g | 58% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 217 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 795 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
