Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes, look no further than this fantastic Sausage Pasta Recipe. It combines hearty Italian sausages with a rich tomato sauce, peppery chili flakes, and fresh spinach, all tossed with perfectly cooked spiral pasta. The combination of savory sausage bits, the slight heat, and tender pasta creates a dish that will quickly become one of your go-to weeknight favorites. Plus, the ease and simplicity make this recipe a true lifesaver when you want delicious comfort food without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Sausage Pasta Recipe shine. Each item plays a vital role, whether it’s the bold flavor of the sausages, the sweetness of the tomatoes, or the fresh brightness of the basil that tops it all off.

• 250 g spiral pasta: This shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
• 500 g good Italian sausages: Choose quality sausages for rich, meaty taste; removing casings isn’t necessary, just chop into chunks.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a perfect base to brown the sausages and soften the aromatics.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings warmth and aromatic punch to the sauce.
• 800 g crushed tomato or tomato passata: The heart of the sauce, this gives it a natural tang and vibrant color.
• 1 tsp chilli flakes: Gives the sauce a gentle, lingering heat—you can adjust to taste.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• 1 to 2 big handfuls baby spinach (optional): Fresh spinach adds a nutritious pop of color and mild earthiness.
• Fresh basil leaves, finely sliced: A fragrant, fresh garnish that brightens the entire dish.
• Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top, giving it a salty, nutty finish.

How to Make Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The spiral pasta cooks perfectly following the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 1 to 2 minutes so it remains al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce. Just before draining, be sure to scoop out and reserve a cup of that starchy pasta water; it’s a magic trick for making your sauce silky and helping it cling beautifully to the noodles.

Step 2: Preparing the Sausage

Cut the sausages into roughly 1.5 cm chunks with a sharp knife. Don’t be alarmed if the pieces look a bit messy—some sausage will squish out as you cut, but this is totally normal and adds to the texture once cooked. This rustic touch actually brings a wonderful variety of bite-sized textures to the dish.

Step 3: Browning the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat and add the sausage chunks. Let them brown well on the outside, which builds layers of flavor, but don’t worry about fully cooking them through just yet. The caramelized bits you get here are pure flavor gold.

Step 4: Sautéing Onions and Garlic

Lower the heat slightly, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant and the sausages get extra crispy and browned. This forms the aromatic base for your sauce that carries so much of the depth in this Sausage Pasta Recipe.

Step 5: Making the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sprinkle in the chili flakes, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and turn the heat to medium. Let the sauce bubble away with occasional stirring for around 8 minutes, or until it thickens nicely. This reduces excess liquid and intensifies all those vibrant, savory flavors that make this recipe a standout.

Step 6: Adding Spinach and Combining Pasta

If you’re including spinach, toss it in now—it wilts down quickly, adding a fresh, earthy balance to the sauce. Then add the drained pasta along with about half a cup of your reserved pasta water. Toss everything quickly for no longer than a minute to marry the flavors and coat the pasta, but take care not to overmix or the pasta will break apart. The result is a luscious, saucy dish that’s ready to serve.

How to Serve Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing with plenty of fresh, finely sliced basil leaves offers an aromatic burst that complements the hearty sauce perfectly. Don’t skimp on freshly grated Parmesan, either; its salty, nutty richness adds the perfect finishing touch and makes every bite extra comforting.

Side Dishes

This Sausage Pasta Recipe shines as a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can elevate the experience. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while warm, crusty garlic bread invites you to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner, serve this pasta family-style in a big vibrant bowl with fresh basil and Parmesan piled high. For a special occasion, try plating individual portions topped with basil sprigs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to make it feel a little more sophisticated. Either way, it’s a dish that invites digging in and sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which may be hard!), store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, making for an equally satisfying meal the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to bring out that fresh just-cooked taste. Alternatively, microwaving in short bursts with occasional stirring works fine too.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Sausage Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While spiral pasta is great for holding the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or farfalle would also be excellent choices. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed to keep that perfect al dente te

How spicy is the dish with 1 teaspoon of chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a gentle warmth that lingers without overpowering the flavors. You can easily adjust the amount depending on your heat preference—add more for a kick or omit for a milder dish.

Can I make this Sausage Pasta Recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap out the spiral pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and sausage are naturally gluten-free, so the dish remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

What can I use instead of spinach if I don’t like it?

You can leave the spinach out or substitute with kale, arugula, or even some finely chopped frozen peas for a bit of sweetness and color. Each variation will bring its own unique touch to the recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Pasta Recipe brings together the best of quick, comforting cooking with vibrant, homemade flavors. It’s a dish you’ll feel proud serving any night of the week and one your family or friends will keep asking for. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a delicious meal that feels anything but ordinary.

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