When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of creamy sausage pasta. This delightful dish combines rich flavors and a smooth, creamy texture, making it a favorite for family dinners and casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients
To make this delicious creamy sausage pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10 oz (300g) pasta (penne or fusilli works best)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps
Initial Preparation
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing your workspace. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
Cooking the Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm up.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up into small pieces with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Final Touches
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Nutritional Value
Understanding the nutritional value of your meal can help you make informed dietary choices. Here's a brief breakdown of the creamy sausage pasta's nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 650-700 kcal
- Macronutrients:
- Proteins: Around 25g
- Fats: About 40g (with saturated fats from the heavy cream and sausage)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Micronutrients:
- Calcium: Provided by the Parmesan cheese
- Vitamin A: From the heavy cream and tomatoes
- Iron: Present in the sausage
Conclusion
This creamy sausage pasta recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a hearty, comforting meal. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both indulgent and delightful. Give this recipe a try, and you're bound to add it to your list of favorites.