Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

This 35-minute Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe is super simple to prepare and made entirely in one pot with minimal ingredients!! It’s irresistibly creamy, deliciously cheesy, and bursting with tender pasta, savory sausage, aromatic vegetables and bold Italian flavors! It’s an easy, restaurant-quality dinner that you and your family will love!

Serve this creamy pasta with warm garlic bread for a fast dinner, or pair it alongside roasted mushrooms or a simple fresh salad for more balanced meal! Continue to read on for helpful tips and easy tricks for preparing the perfect sausage pasta! And, don’t miss the step by step photos at the bottom of the post!

Hi, friends! I hope you are ready for some easy, creamy, dreamy pasta! Because, today I’m sharing one of my favorite cozy weeknight dinners!

Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe

This Italian pasta recipe has it all – it’s thick and creamy in texture, meaty and cheesy in taste, and bursting with incredible flavor! It features tender small pasta, savory Italian sausage, salty parmesan, fragrant onion, sweet bell pepper, aromatic garlic and flavorful Italian seasonings all lovingly coated in a silky and light, yet rich and hearty creamy white sauce.

Aside from being deliciously irresistible and completely craveworthy, this Italian sausage and pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners with the family or cozy date nights at home! This recipe is a total breeze to prepare – it uses simple ingredients and it’s made entirely in one pot in 35 minutes or less! Plus, it’s completely flexible, so you can be creative and customize this one-pot pasta with your favorite add-ins!

It’s a luscious, cheesy, meaty, comforting, restaurant-quality dinner you and your family will love! And, since everything is made in one pot it means less clean up for you! Pasta lovers rejoice! Now get this (subtly) spicy sausage pasta in your life!

What ingredients do I need to make pasta with sausage?

This easy, creamy pasta is bursting with robust flavor and relies on simple, common ingredients for a restaurant-quality taste! (Scroll down for the detailed measurements in the printable recipe at the bottom of the page.)

• Pasta: While I typically use medium shell pasta (conchiglie), you can use any variety of small dry pasta you have on hand! Try using macaroni, fusilli, gemelli or orecchiette!
• Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best, rich flavor!
• Fresh Vegetables: 1 yellow onion and red bell pepper provide a base of flavor for the pasta.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic add a distinctive, punchy taste.
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning, kosher salt and ground black pepper all provide flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade Italian seasoning.
• Sausage: You need 1 pound of sausage. You can use a few different varieties of sausage for this recipe – see below to read about types of sausage you can use!
• Flour: 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour helps thicken the creamy sauce.
• White Wine: Any dry white wine you like will work! Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc are all great options! Or, you can substitute broth instead.
• Chicken Broth: Reduced sodium or unsalted chicken broth helps to create the sauce. You can substitute chicken stock or vegetable broth if you prefer.
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups of heavy cream give the pasta sauce a creamy, luxurious mouthfeel.
• Parmesan: 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese adds sharp, savory flavor. I recommend aged parmesan for the most complex flavor. Make sure you freshly grate your cheese for the best taste!

How to customize sausage pasta?

Want to make some changes to this Italian sausage pasta recipe?! No problem! I encourage you to make this pasta dish your own! Get creative and add your family’s favorite ingredients! Below are a few ideas to get you started.

• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushroom and add them to the dish along with the pasta in step 6 of the recipe.
• Broccoli: Chop fresh broccoli into small florets and add it along with the onion and peppers in step 2 of the recipe.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Add drained and sliced sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic in step 3.
• Chopped Pepperoni: Make it a meat lover’s dream! Add in some chopped sliced pepperoni along with the garlic in step 3 of the recipe.
• Diced tomatoes: Add roughly chopped cherry or grape tomatoes along with the pasta in step 6.
• Baby spinach or kale: Stir in a heaping cup of baby spinach during the last minute of cooking.
• Bacon: Toss in some cooked and crumbled bacon at the end of cooking.
• Cheese: Stir in freshly shredded mozzarella or dollop torn burrata on top for an extra touch of creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil, parsley, oregano and thyme all work wonderfully with this pasta! Add the fresh herbs during the last minute of cooking or sprinkle them on the finished dish before serving.

What type of sausage can I use?

There are thousands of varieties of sausages available around the world; however, Italian sausage is typically used in pasta. You can use your favorite type of sausage depending on personal preference. I recommend you use ‘loose’ or ground sausage for ease and convenience. Nevertheless, you can use sausage links – just be sure to remove the sausage meat from their casings before proceeding with the recipe.

• Italian sausage: Italian sausage is sweet and spicy with a garlicky kick. It comes in three varieties – sweet, mild and hot. While Italian sausage is broadly defined, the most familiar variety, known as mild Italian sausage, is made from ground pork and includes fennel. Hot Italian sausage also contains red pepper flakes while sweet sausage includes sweet basil. You can use whichever variety you like depending on your spice preference.
• Chorizo: Chorizo sausage is aromatic with a smoky and spicy flavor. There are two types of chorizo – Mexican and Spanish. The chorizo most readily available in the U.S is the Mexican variety, which is flavored with chiles, garlic and spices. Spanish chorizo is cured or smoked and does not require cooking before eating. I don’t recommend Spanish chorizo for this recipe.
• Breakfast sausage: Breakfast sausage, also labeled as country sausage or simply pork sausage, is an American fresh pork sausage. Breakfast sausage can be purchased in a variety of flavors; however, I recommend either regular or hot pork sausage for this recipe. Also, breakfast sausage patties aren’t the best option for this recipe. Stick with ground breakfast sausage or sausage links.
• Chicken Sausage: If you are looking for a leaner option, Italian chicken sausage is a great alternative!

Do I have to use sausage?

If you don’t eat pork, or simply prefer a different type of meat, you can substitute the ground pork for just about any type of ground meat. Or, you can use a 50-50 combination – half pork and half ground meat of your preference.

• Beef
• Veal
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Plant-based ground meat (soy-based protein crumbles)

What to serve with pasta?

This creamy sausage pasta is hearty and eats like a complete meal! However, there are plenty of sides you can serve with this authentic Italian sausage pasta! Transform your Italian pasta into an impressive meal with these sides!

10 side dishes that go well with Italian pasta:

• Bread: Some sort of crusty bread is the most obvious choice! Try a good crusty artisan bread, cheesy bread or garlic knots!
• Salad: A light salad is a great way to balance out heavier pasta! Try a simple green salad, Italian salad, wedge or Caesar salad.
• Fruit salad: While not traditional, a combination of your favorite fresh fruits is a delicious way to end your meal!
• Spinach: Sauteed or steamed spinach is a delicious compliment.
• Mushrooms: Roasted or sauteed mushrooms is always a crowd pleaser!
• Peppers and onions: Sauteed peppers and onions is always a winner!
• Broccoli: Roasted broccoli topped with a healthy sprinkling of parmesan is my personal favorite side!
• Asparagus: Crisp roasted asparagus is a great choice for a more well-rounded meal!
• Cauliflower: Mashed cauliflower is a cozy, yet healthy side option!
• Wine: I’m fairly certain my family considers wine a side. And, a nice glass of wine is a great compliment to rich pasta – but, only for the adults at the table!

How to make Italian sausage pasta?

This creamy sausage pasta recipe is super simple to prepare and made entirely in one pot! (Don’t forget to scroll down for the detailed instructions in the complete printable recipe at the bottom of the page.)

1. Cook pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to al dente package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, sauté vegetables: In a large skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are almost softened.
3. Add sausage and season: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the sausage to the pan along with the Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the sausage as you go, for about 4-6 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add flour and deglaze: Sprinkle the flour over sausage. Cook, stirring, for 1-2 minute. Add the wine to deglaze the pan. Stir well, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add liquids and simmer: Stir in the broth, and then add the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer. Immediately reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce is slightly thickened.
6. Add pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta. Cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
7. Add parmesan: Turn off the heat and gradually stir in parmesan cheese, one handful at a time. Stir until cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
8. Serve: Taste and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and top with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. Serve and enjoy!

How to make creamy sausage pasta step by step:

How to store leftover pasta with sausage?

Allow the cooked pasta to cool completely. Transfer the leftover sausage pasta to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up 2 days.

How to reheat creamy pasta?

Looking to enjoy those tasty leftovers for lunch or as a quick dinner? To prevent a mushy, separated mess follow one of the two easy methods below!

• Microwave: Place a single serving of leftover pasta in a microwave-safe container. Add a few splashes of water or chicken broth to loosen the creamy sauce. Cover the container with a lid, but leave one corner open for steam to escape. Microwave at 50% power for one minute and stir. Continue heating the pasta in 30-second increments until warm throughout.
• Stove: Transfer your leftover pasta to a small saucepan. Add a few splashes of chicken broth or water to loosen the cream-based sauce. Place the saucepan over low heat. Reheat, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.

How many calories in pasta with sausage?

The exact number of calories and carbohydrates in creamy Italian pasta will depend upon the precise measurement and brand of ingredients used. This recipe serves six and has approximately 704 calories and 34 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

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Looking for more easy pasta recipes?

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Creamy Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe

Mediterranean Pasta Recipe with Chicken

One Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

The best Creamy Italian Pasta with Sausage recipe👇

Print Recipe

5 from 4 votes

Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

This creamy Italian sausage pasta recipe is super simple, made with minimal ingredients and ready in 35 minutes or less! It's irresistibly creamy, deliciously cheesy, and bursting with tender pasta, savory sausage, aromatic vegetables and bold Italian flavors! It's an easy, restaurant-quality dinner that you and your family will love!

Recipe can be scaled up or down by using the slider if you hover your mouse over the number of Servings.

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Total Time35 mins

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Keyword: creamy, pasta, sausage

Servings: 6

Calories: 704kcal

Author: Cheyanne Holzworth

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Large, Deep Skillet

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked Shell Pasta (or other small pasta)
• 1 TBS Olive Oil
• 1 small Yellow Onion – finely chopped (about 1 ¾ cup)
• 1 small Red Bell Pepper – finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage - sweet, mild or hot (SEE NOTES)
• 2 cloves Garlic – minced
• 1 ¼ tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 TBS All-Purpose Flour
• 1/3 cup EACH: White Wine & Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (or 2/3 cup of broth only)
• 2 Cups Heavy Cream
• ½ Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – plus more for garnish
• Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – to taste

For Garnish: Fresh Parsley, Fresh Basil, Red Pepper Flakes, Lemon Wedges

For Serving: Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread

Instructions

• Cook pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to al dente package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
  
• While pasta cooks, sauté vegetables: In a large, deep skillet heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. When oil shimmers, add the onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until vegetables are almost softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  
• Add sausage and season: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the sausage to the pan along with the Italian seasoning. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, breaking the sausage up into large crumbles as you go, for about 4-6 minutes, or until sausage is almost browned. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  
• Add flour and deglaze: Sprinkle the flour over sausage and stir well. Cook 1-2 minute to remove raw flour taste. Add the wine (or 1/3 cup broth) to deglaze the pan. Stir well, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
  
• Add liquids and simmer: Stir in the broth and then add the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, then immediately reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the sauce is reduced and slightly thickened.
  
• Add pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta. Cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
  
• Add parmesan: Turn off the heat and gradually stir in parmesan cheese, one handful at a time. Stir until cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
  
• Serve: Taste and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and top with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon. Serve and enjoy!
  

Notes

1. Pasta: You can use any variety of small dry pasta you have on hand! Try using macaroni, fusilli, gemelli or orecchiette!
2. Sausage: I personally used ground spicy Italian sausage; however, you can use your favorite type of sausage depending on personal preference! Make sure you use ‘loose’ or ground sausage. If you purchase sausage links, be sure to remove the sausages from their casings before proceeding with the recipe. For a full list of varieties of sausage you can use, please see details in the post. 

Recipe Serves: 4-6 people

Nutritional information is an approximation based upon 6 servings.  Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 704kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 54g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Cholesterol: 170mg | Sodium: 646mg | Potassium: 396mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1659IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 169mg | Iron: 2mg

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