Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This Quick and Healthy Sweet Basil and Roasted Garlic Sausage with Penne Pasta is not just a meal—it's an experience that combines the rich, caramelized depth of roasted garlic, the aromatic freshness of sweet basil, and the hearty satisfaction of perfectly cooked Italian sausage. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle, this recipe is your ticket to an unforgettable dining adventure.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 sweet Italian sausages
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the roasted garlic by cutting the top off the garlic head, drizzling with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, wrapping in aluminum foil, and roasting for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden.
- While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, cook the sweet Italian sausages over medium heat. Brown them evenly on all sides, about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and squeeze the soft, caramelized cloves from their skin. Roughly chop or mash the roasted garlic.
- Slice the cooked sausages into diagonal rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- In the same skillet used for cooking sausages, add remaining olive oil. Sauté the sliced sausages and roasted garlic together for 2-3 minutes to develop additional flavor.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sausages and roasted garlic. If the mixture seems dry, add some reserved pasta water.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta, season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to distribute herbs and seasonings evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Tips
- Roast Garlic Like a Pro: Take your time with the garlic roasting process. The slower and more carefully you roast, the more complex and sweet the flavor becomes.
- Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. Its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients stick together.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety and perfect doneness.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh basil if possible—it provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- One-Pan Efficiency: By using the same skillet for sausages and finishing the dish, you'll capture all the delicious browned bits and maximize flavor.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage or add extra vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for more nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
