Description
Sausage Pesto Pasta a quick and flavorful Italian dish with juicy sausage, vibrant basil pesto, and tender pasta tossed in a creamy herbed sauce.
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
2 tbsp olive oil (if sausage is lean)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
1/2 cup (120 g) basil pesto
1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil (if needed) over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking into crumbles.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in cherry tomatoes and sauté until softened.
4. Reduce heat and add pesto and heavy cream (if using). Stir in a splash of pasta water to loosen.
5. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan; toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with basil and extra cheese.
Notes
Skip the cream for a lighter version.
Add spinach, arugula, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor and texture.
Use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 850
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 18
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: pesto pasta, sausage pasta, creamy pesto, italian dinner