Spicy Sausage Pasta is a bold, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With zesty sausage, creamy tomato sauce, and tender penne, it’s quick to make and packed with flavor in every bite.
Why We Love This Spicy Sausage Pasta Recipe
There’s something genuinely special about Spicy Sausage Pasta that keeps you coming back for more. Firstly, it offers a unique blend of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The combination of spicy sausage with creamy sauce and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that is rich yet light on the stomach.
Secondly, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. With just one skillet, the cleanup is minimal, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal. Plus, the ingredients are simple and straightforward, allowing you to whip up this culinary delight without needing advanced cooking skills.
Lastly, Spicy Sausage Pasta is highly customizable. Whether you want to add more veggies, switch up the sausage, or even try a different kind of pasta, the options are limitless. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey that will have your guests raving about your culinary skills.
Ingredients about Spicy Sausage Pasta
Creating the perfect Spicy Sausage Pasta begins with the right ingredients. The combination of these elements contributes to a balanced, delicious meal that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 1.5 cups diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (10 oz) can Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles, Mild
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions
These ingredients work together to create a rich and hearty dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Using high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables will ensure that your pasta is not only delicious but also satisfying.
How to Make Spicy Sausage Pasta Directions
Now that you have your ingredients ready let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful dish. Follow these directions closely to achieve the best results.
Heat the Skillet: Begin by adding one tablespoon of olive oil to an oven-safe skillet. Place the skillet over medium-high heat, allowing the oil to heat up until it reaches smoking point. This will help to sear the sausage and onions effectively.
Cook the Sausage and Onions: Once the oil is hot, add the smoked sausage and diced onions to the skillet. Cook them together for about four minutes until the onions become tender and lightly browned. This step not only adds a depth of flavor but also infuses the oil with the essence of the sausage.
Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet. This may only need about 30 seconds of cooking, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Take care not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
Combine with Liquids: Now it’s time to add the flavor-packed liquids to the mix. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, followed by the can of Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles. The tomatoes will provide acidity and balance, making for a well-rounded sauce. After this, add in the heavy cream for creamy richness.
Add the Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta, alongside the salt and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing it to simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, the pasta will cook and absorb all those delicious flavors.
Final Touches: Once the pasta is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half a cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese until it melts and becomes part of the creamy sauce. Top the pasta with the remaining cheese, and sprinkle the sliced scallions on top.
Broil for Perfection: To achieve a perfectly browned and bubbling cheese topping, place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once it’s golden and bubbly, you’re ready to serve up this delightful pasta.
The combination of creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy flavors will have everyone at your table wanting seconds—or even thirds.
How to Serve Spicy Sausage Pasta
Serving Spicy Sausage Pasta is just as important as making it. To make a great presentation, consider serving it directly from the skillet, which showcases the beautiful layering of ingredients. Here are a few ideas for serving:
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of additional sliced scallions on top for a pop of color and freshness. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the dish if desired.
- Pair it Right: Serve your pasta with a simple side salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a toasted baguette can also complement the meal, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
- Add a Crunch: If you want an extra textural element, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy more heat or toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
Don’t forget to offer freshly grated cheese and cracked black pepper at the table for guests to add according to their liking. This dish makes an excellent centerpiece for any casual dining experience.
Expert Tips: Spicy Sausage Pasta
To ensure your Spicy Sausage Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose the Right Sausage: Since the sausage is a starring component of this dish, select a quality smoked sausage that adds depth and flavor. Options like chicken or turkey sausage work well if you prefer a leaner choice.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Garlic adds a rich depth of flavor, but it can turn bitter if overcooked. Make sure to watch it closely when adding it to the skillet.
- Check Pasta Doneness: Pasta can vary in cooking time, so make sure to taste it a minute or two before the specified cooking time to ensure it’s al dente.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment by adding extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pasta. You can also adjust the level of spice by switching to hot Ro-Tel tomatoes or adding a dash of hot sauce.
- Embrace the Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to bring it back to life.
Utilizing these tips can elevate your Spicy Sausage Pasta experience, ensuring that each bite is just as delightful as the last.
How to Store Spicy Sausage Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck because Spicy Sausage Pasta stores very well! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Cooling: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation that can lead to sogginess.
- Refrigeration: Store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: If you plan to keep it longer, Spicy Sausage Pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide it into portions for easy reheating later. Just remember that the texture may slightly change, especially the pasta, upon thawing.
- Reheating: When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in a microwave-safe dish, or gently warm it up on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
With these storage tips, you can savor the deliciousness of your Spicy Sausage Pasta even days after preparing it.
Variations of Spicy Sausage Pasta
The beauty of Spicy Sausage Pasta lies in its versatility. Whether you want to switch up the flavors or cater to dietary needs, there are plenty of variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with your favorite plant-based protein or even extra veggies like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty meal full of nutrients without the meat.
- Cheesy Delight: Add more cheese to the mix—try pepper jack for an extra kick, or mix in some parmesan for a nutty flavor.
- Different Pasta Shapes: While penne is classic, feel free to switch it up. Fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells make delightful alternatives that capture sauce beautifully.
- Spicy Lovers: For the heat enthusiasts, add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the dish’s spiciness. You could also use spicy Italian sausage for a game-changer.
- Creaminess Level: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or incorporate Greek yogurt for a different twist while keeping it creamy.
Experiment with these variations to find the combination that best suits your taste. Spicy Sausage Pasta is a canvas for your culinary creativity.
FAQ
What is Spicy Sausage Pasta?
Spicy Sausage Pasta is a quick and easy dish combining smoked sausage with creamy sauce and pasta. It’s flavorful and comforting, perfect for any occasion.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Spicy Sausage Pasta in advance and either store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer preservation.
What other ingredients can I add to Spicy Sausage Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can customize the dish according to your taste and dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! Incorporate spicy Italian sausage or add fresh jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While penne is recommended, you can use various pasta shapes such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on your personal preference.
Spicy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage
- 1.5 cups diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 10 oz can Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles, Mild
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until smoking.
- Add the smoked sausage and diced onions to the skillet and cook for about four minutes until the onions are tender and lightly browned.
- Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the can of Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles, followed by the heavy cream.
- Stir in the penne pasta, salt, and pepper, ensuring everything is well combined. Bring to a boil.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the pasta is cooked.
- Remove from heat, stir in half a cup of Monterey Jack cheese until melted, then top with the remaining cheese and scallions.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.