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Homemade Sausage Penne Pasta photo

Sausage Penne Pasta

A creamy, savory penne pasta with Italian sausage and tomatoes that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, mild
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 1/2-2 cans Italian stewed tomatoes drained and chopped
  • 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp dried basil
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded divided

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and minced garlic and cook, breaking the sausage into pieces, until no longer pink, about 4–5 minutes; drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add the drained, chopped stewed tomatoes, heavy whipping cream, salt, dried basil, and 1/2 cup of the shredded Parmesan to the skillet; stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  4. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Toss the drained penne with the sausage-tomato cream sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately and garnish with the remaining shredded Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Drain the sausage fat if there is excess to avoid a greasy sauce.
  • Use full-fat cream for the best texture.
  • Adjust salt to taste after adding Parmesan.