Pin A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring savory sausage, a creamy tomato sauce, and al dente penne. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying on the table fast.
When I first tried this creamy tomato and sausage pasta, it instantly became a go-to for rushed evenings when everyone craves comfort food. The combination of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne made it an instant hit in my household.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne pasta
- Meats: 300 g (10 oz) Italian sausage (casings removed), 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Sauce: 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or mixed), 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Cheese & Garnish: 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Sauté Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it up, and cook until browned (about 4 minutes).
- Add Vegetables:
- Add onion; sauté until softened (about 2 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Make Sauce:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add Cream & Season:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add pasta to sauce, toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed.
- Finish & Serve:
- Stir in Parmesan. Adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally garnished with basil or parsley.
Pin 
My kids love helping sprinkle Parmesan over the finished dish, and I always set aside a bowl for my husband to take for lunch the next day. We laugh about how everyone fights over the leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a nutritious twist.
Recipe Variations
Try swapping in chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce richness.
Nutrition Information
Each serving provides approximately 620 calories, 29 g fat, 60 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Pin Serve this creamy tomato and sausage pasta piping hot and garnish generously with fresh herbs for extra color and aroma.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or fusilli are great alternatives.
- → Can I use a different meat instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, chicken or turkey sausage can be used for a lighter flavor without sacrificing texture.
- → How can the sauce be thickened if too runny?
Simmer the sauce a few minutes longer or add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust consistency.
- → Are there any recommended garnish options?
Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top complements the richness with a refreshing herbal note.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes, adding extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder will enhance the heat.