If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering meal that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with a delightful twist, look no further than this Pasta with Sausage, Basil, and Mustard! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests asking for seconds. The creamy sauce, infused with the boldness of Dijon mustard and the freshness of basil, perfectly complements the savory Italian sausage, making this recipe a must-try for any pasta lover. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinner? Let's dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta, 1 lb of Italian sausage (casings removed), 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup of fresh basil (chopped), 1/2 cup of heavy cream, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet, if necessary. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Mix well until the mustard is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Chop the fresh basil and add it to the skillet, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the pasta is ready, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sausage and mustard sauce.
- Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick. Ensure all the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Once combined, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Enjoy your delicious Pasta with Sausage, Basil, and Mustard, perfect for a comforting meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or rigatoni, for the best texture and flavor combination.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Make sure to salt your pasta water generously. It enhances the flavor of the pasta itself and ensures a well-seasoned dish.
- Sauté the Sausage Evenly: Break the sausage into small pieces while cooking to ensure even browning and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water. It will help achieve a creamy, luscious coating on the pasta.
- Fresh Basil Matters: For the best flavor, use fresh basil instead of dried. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant taste and aroma.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese not only adds a delicious finishing touch but also enhances the overall presentation of your dish.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor, or switch up the type of sausage for a different taste experience.With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a pasta dish that’s both comforting and unforgettable. Happy cooking!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 120mg
