If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and easy to whip up, look no further than the creamy Italian sausage pasta. Packed with rich flavors and a luscious texture, this dish is bound to become a staple on your dining table. Imagine tender chunks of sausage nestled in a creamy sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta – a true culinary masterpiece that’s ready in no time.
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Growing up, Sundays at my grandmother’s house meant two things: the warmth of family, and the tantalizing aroma of her pasta dishes. This particular recipe was a family favorite; a dish that brought us all together, intertwined with laughter and stories. Even now, each bite takes me back to those cherished gatherings, where the conversation flowed as freely as the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta dish is not only rich and satisfying, but also incredibly simple to make. It boasts an indulgent creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced by the savory Italian sausage. The recipe uses pantry staples, making it both affordable and convenient for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress at a dinner party or simply enjoy as a comfort meal.
Ingredients Notes
To create this delicious meal, you’ll need high-quality Italian sausage, fresh cream, and your choice of pasta. Look for sausage with a slight fennel note for an authentic Italian touch. If cream is hard to come by, half-and-half can be used as a substitute. Opt for pasta shapes like penne or fusilli that hold the sauce well, allowing you to enjoy every bite.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta of choice until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 2
In a large skillet, sauté the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks for easy mixing later.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the sausage. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic which can turn bitter.
Step 4
Pour in the cream, stirring to combine with the sausage and garlic. Allow it to simmer gently until the sauce begins to thicken. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
Step 5
Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sausage sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, portion out the pasta and freeze in individual containers. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or cream to restore the initial creaminess without drying out the dish.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider using turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version of the dish. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Vegetarians can substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms for an umami-rich alternative. To make it gluten-free, simply swap in a gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner, complemented by a side of crusty garlic bread and a fresh green salad. It’s ideal for a family meal, but elegant enough to serve at a more formal gathering. Pair it with a crisp white wine for a complete dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While we recommend penne or fusilli for their sauce-holding natures, feel free to use any shape you prefer or have on hand.
How can I make the sauce less rich? If you prefer a lighter sauce, replace half of the cream with chicken broth. This will reduce the richness while maintaining flavor depth. Tweak the consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, this dish holds up well for meal prep. Prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before eating to preserve the sauce’s texture. Store in portions to make reheating simpler.
How to Make the Best Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta With Cajun Chicken in 7 Steps!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning see recipe below
For the Pasta
- 1.5 lbs penne pasta
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
- 1.5 lbs spicy Italian sausage removed from casings
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup pepperoncini peppers sliced, plus 1/2 cup juice from the jar
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
For the Cajun Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons paprika mild or smoked
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 1.25 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 0.75 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to preference
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the Cajun seasoning or use 4 tablespoons of a store-bought blend.
- Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with 3 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken, cooking 3 minutes per side.
- Lower the heat, add 3/4 cup of water, cover, and simmer for 6-8 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove chicken, tent with foil. In the same skillet, cook sausage until browned, then set aside.
- In the skillet, add butter, garlic, pepperoncini, sauté for 1 minute. Add cream and remaining seasoning, simmer.
- Cook pasta, reserve 1/2 cup water. Combine pasta, sausage, cheese with sauce, adding water for consistency. Slice and top with chicken, garnish with cheese.
