Imagine twirling your fork into a steaming plate of perfectly cooked penne, loaded with spicy Italian sausage and rich, vibrant tomato sauce that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. This Penne con la Salciccia isn't just a meal - it's a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning dinner guests. Whether you're a pasta lover, a comfort food enthusiast, or simply craving an authentic Italian experience, this recipe is about to become your new go-to weeknight dinner sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of penne pasta, 1 lb of Italian sausage (casings removed), 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp of olive oil, fresh basil for garnish, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir to combine with the sausage and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the penne pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sausage and tomato mixture. Toss everything together, adding a little reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, divide the Penne con la Salciccia among plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian meal!
Tips
- Always use fresh, high-quality Italian sausage for the most authentic flavor profile.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining - its starchy goodness helps create a silkier sauce.
- Cook the sausage thoroughly and break it into small, uniform pieces for even distribution.
- Don't overcook the garlic - it should be fragrant, not burnt.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce.
- Fresh basil is key - chop it just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
