Irresistible Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Italian Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Italian sausage (sweet or spicy); 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped; 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned); ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

November 23, 2025

Updated:

November 23, 2025

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The aroma of sizzling Italian sausage fills the kitchen, teasing your senses with its spicy, savory notes. As you toss the pasta into boiling water, anticipation builds for a comforting bowl of Italian sausage pasta that promises to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.

This dish takes me back to family gatherings where laughter bounced off the walls, and plates were piled high. It’s the perfect meal for cozy evenings or busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Italian sausage pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight hero

The flavor profile bursts with savory goodness from the sausage and fresh herbs
Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with vibrant colors from the veggies

It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how good this pasta was at my last dinner party—seriously, they were practically begging for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Italian Sausage: Choose sweet or spicy based on your heat preference; fresh links work best for maximum flavor.

Pasta: I recommend using penne or rigatoni; their shape holds sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall richness of flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide that aromatic punch that makes you feel right at home.

Onion: Use yellow onion for sweetness; it caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
Bell Peppers: These add color and crunch; feel free to mix red and green for visual appeal.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose crushed tomatoes for a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil; it adds a burst of flavor just before serving.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates every bite with its nutty richness—don’t skip this!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Veggies: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onion and bell peppers; cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Sausage: Remove casings from Italian sausage and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Stir frequently so it doesn’t stick.

Incorporate Garlic and Tomatoes: Add minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then pour in crushed tomatoes, stirring everything together. Let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.

Toss with Pasta: Once pasta is done cooking, drain it (but reserve some pasta water). Add cooked pasta directly into the sauce mixture along with a splash of reserved water if needed. Toss everything together until well coated.

Finish and Serve!: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while it’s hot; watch as your family dives in like they haven’t eaten all day!

With each bite of this Italian sausage pasta, you’re transported straight to Italy—no plane ticket required! So grab your fork and dig in; I promise you won’t regret it!

You Must Know

Italian sausage pasta is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug on a plate
The warm, spicy aroma wafting from the kitchen will make your family rush to the table
It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the Italian sausage first, then add garlic and onions before cooking the pasta for optimal flavor blending.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Make sure to use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor and texture

Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water; it helps thicken your sauce
Adjust seasoning as you go for perfectly balanced flavors

Sharing my love for Italian sausage pasta brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled our home.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of pasta works best with Italian sausage?

Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great choices that hold sauce well.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still delivers great flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meal.

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