1. Introduction
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
As the stars begin to pepper the night sky over Ouarzazate, the thought of a comforting and flavorful pasta dish becomes especially appealing. Today, we’re sharing our recipe for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta. This dish combines the rich flavors of Tuscan Italian sausage with a creamy tomato sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta and finished with fresh basil. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
This pasta dish is a celebration of Italian-inspired flavors. The sausage, browned and crumbled, creates a savory base, while the tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity. The cream and Parmesan cheese blend together to form a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The fresh basil on top adds a bright, aromatic finish. If you enjoy creamy and flavorful pasta dishes, much like our Spicy Korean Ramen with Grilled Beef and Creamy Sauce (though with a different flavor profile), you’re going to love this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta. Let’s get cooking!
2. Recipe Summary
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Total preparation and cooking time: 40 minutes
- Dietary classification: Not gluten-free (pasta).
3. Equipment and Utensils
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
4. Serving Suggestions
- Plating: Serve hot in bowls. The creamy pasta with bits of sausage and fresh basil looks appealing on its own. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.
- Side Dish Ideas: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette or some garlic bread.
- Complementary Side Dishes: Consider serving with our Easy Garlic Knots Recipe.
- Wine or Beverage Pairings: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water or a light Italian soda.
5. Nutritional Information
- Detailed Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-55g
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Macronutrient Distribution: Roughly 40% Carbohydrates, 20% Protein, 40% Fat.
- Dietary Information: Not gluten-free. Contains dairy.
- Potential Health Benefits: Tomatoes contain lycopene.
6. Storage and Reheating
- Proper Storage Instructions: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Refrigeration Instructions: Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Freezing Recommendations: Freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes alter the texture of the sauce and the pasta. It’s best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze it, be aware that the sauce might separate slightly upon thawing.
- Reheating Methods:
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1-2 minutes until hot.
7. Expert Tips and Variations
- Tips from Professional Chefs: Browning the sausage well enhances its flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overcooking the garlic, which can make it bitter; not seasoning the sauce adequately.
- Creative Recipe Variations:
- Vegetables: Add spinach, kale, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herbs: Use other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley in addition to or instead of basil.
- Cheese: Try adding a bit of Pecorino Romano cheese along with or instead of Parmesan.
- Seasonal Adaptations: This comforting pasta dish is great year-round. You can adapt it with seasonal vegetables.
8. Ingredients Section
- 300g Tuscan Italian sausage (approximately 10.5 oz)
- Quality and Sourcing Recommendations: Look for Italian sausage with fennel for that classic Tuscan flavor. Remove the casings.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- Sourcing: Yellow or white onion.
- Preparation Notes: Roughly chop.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Sourcing: Fresh garlic.
- Preparation Notes: Finely mince.
- 400g canned crushed tomatoes (approximately 14 oz)
- Sourcing: Canned goods aisle.
- 200ml heavy cream (approximately 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- Sourcing: Dairy aisle.
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese (approximately 1 cup, loosely packed)
- Sourcing: Dairy aisle. Freshly grated is best.
- 250g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli) (approximately 8.8 oz)
- Sourcing: Pasta aisle.
- Olive oil
- Quality and Sourcing Recommendations: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended.
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Sourcing: Fresh herbs in the produce section.
- Preparation Notes: Chiffonade or roughly chop.
Metric Conversions (Approximate):
- 300g sausage ≈ 10.5 oz
- 1 medium onion ≈ 150g
- 400g crushed tomatoes ≈ 14 oz
- 200ml heavy cream ≈ 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon
- 100g Parmesan cheese ≈ 1 cup (loosely packed)
- 250g pasta ≈ 8.8 oz
9. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Brown Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (removed from casings) and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes over low heat.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped basil.
Sweet tooth calling? Share this easy & delicious Easy Chicken and Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe with your friends on Facebook or save it to your Pinterest boards for a sunny day treat!
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does Tuscan sausage taste like?
Tuscan sausage is known for its simple yet distinct flavor profile. Typical seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic, and wild fennel seeds. The fennel seeds provide a hint of sweetness and a subtle anise-like flavor that sets it apart from other Italian sausages. Some versions might also include a touch of red wine.
What is Tuscan sausage pasta?
Tuscan sausage pasta is a dish featuring Tuscan sausage (often removed from its casing and crumbled) combined with pasta and other ingredients. There isn’t one single definitive “Tuscan sausage pasta,” but common additions include: * Tomatoes: Sun-dried, cherry, or a tomato-based sauce. * Greens: Spinach or kale. * Cream or broth: To create a sauce. * Cheese: Parmesan is often used. * Aromatics like garlic and onion.
What to do with Tuscan sausages?
Tuscan sausages are quite versatile. You can:
Grill or pan-fry them and serve with vegetables or beans.
Remove them from their casings and use the meat in pasta sauces, like a ragù.
Incorporate them into stews with beans and vegetables.
Use the meat as a flavorful addition to pizza toppings.
Make sausage rolls or stuff them into puff pastry.
What is the name of the Italian creamy sausage pasta?
One popular Italian creamy sausage pasta dish is called Pasta alla Norcina. It’s a specialty from the Norcia region in Umbria and typically features a creamy sauce with pork sausage (often a milder sausage without strong fennel), black pepper, and sometimes nutmeg. Traditionally, it can also be finished with shaved black truffles if in season.