Picture yourself in a cozy trattoria in the heart of Tuscany, the aroma of simmering tomato sauce and fragrant herbs wafting through the air. That’s the experience we’re bringing to your kitchen with this mouthwatering Italian Sausage Penne Pasta recipe. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a small family meal, this dish combines the rich flavors of Italy in a simple, satisfying bowl.
Ingredients (2-3 servings):
- 250g penne pasta
- 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pasta. Stir to combine and let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Chef’s Tips:
- For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Don’t have fresh basil? Dried basil works too, but use about 1 tablespoon and add it earlier in the cooking process.
- To make the dish creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this rustic pasta dish in warm bowls with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes for a perfect accompaniment, balancing the rich flavors of the pasta.
Buon appetito! This Italian Sausage Penne Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of savory sausage, al dente pasta, and aromatic basil creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.
Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your table? Give this recipe a try and share your culinary creation with us! Tag us on social media or leave a comment below – we’d love to see how your pasta turns out. Enjoy your homemade Italian feast!
