Are you looking for a delicious and easy one - pot meal to serve your family tonight? Look no further than this cream - sauced sausage pasta. It combines the rich flavors of sausage, the creaminess of the sauce, and the comforting texture of pasta, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner.
To start with, you'll need some essential ingredients. For the pasta, you can choose your favorite type, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Penne is a great option as it holds the sauce well. You'll also need some high - quality sausages. Italian sausages are a classic choice, with their blend of spices that add a wonderful depth of flavor. You can use either sweet or hot Italian sausages, depending on your family's taste preferences.
Next, gather the ingredients for the cream sauce. You'll need heavy cream, which gives the sauce its luxurious texture. Parmesan cheese is a must - have, as it adds a sharp and nutty flavor. A little bit of garlic will bring out the savory notes, and some fresh herbs like parsley or basil will add a pop of color and freshness.
Let's begin the cooking process. First, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sausages. Remove the casings from the sausages and crumble them into small pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium - high heat and add a little bit of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the crumbled sausages and cook them until they are browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5 - 7 minutes. Stir the sausages frequently to ensure even cooking.
After the sausages are cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Then, pour in the heavy cream. Bring the cream to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. This is when you'll add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the cheese into the cream until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
By this time, the pasta should be al dente. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sausage and cream sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little bit of the pasta cooking water to thin it out. This will also help to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top of the pasta. The bright green herbs not only add a beautiful visual appeal but also a fresh and vibrant flavor. You can also add a little bit of extra Parmesan cheese on top for those who love a cheesy kick.
This cream - sauced sausage pasta is not only delicious but also very versatile. You can customize it according to your family's preferences. If you like vegetables, you can add some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the skillet along with the sausages. This will add more nutrients and variety to the meal.
It's also a great meal for leftovers. You can store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You might need to add a little bit of water or milk to the pasta to make it moist again.
In conclusion, this cream - sauced sausage pasta is a winner for family dinners. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your family's taste. So, why not give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious one - pot meal with your loved ones?
