Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta – Lauren’s Latest

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This Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta is everything you want in a recipe: creamy, comforting, and packed with the rich flavors of sausage, garlic, and parmesan cheese. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it the perfect weeknight dinner.

 

Why You’ll Love this Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

This spicy Italian sausage pasta is a great dish for so many reasons. It’s almost a one-skillet wonder, (aside from boiling the pasta), meaning cleanup is minimal. The creamy sauce, flavored with browned butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese, clings beautifully to the pasta for a luscious bite every time. The spicy kick from the sausage balances out the richness, while the option to garnish with fresh basil or parsley adds a fresh touch. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit for a busy weeknight!

Ingredients Needed for Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this spicy Italian sausage pasta:

• Pappardelle Pasta: Wide noodles that hold the sauce well, but penne pasta or rigatoni pasta also work.
• Spicy Italian Sausage Links: Adds heat and rich flavor, but you can substitute with mild Italian sausage or sweet Italian sausage if you prefer.
• Garlic: Freshly grated for maximum flavor.
• Butter: Helps create a golden brown base for the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce velvety and rich.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to the sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To season the dish perfectly.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for a pop of color and freshness.

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Variations

Make this recipe your own with these simple swaps and additions:

• Add Veggies: Sweet bell peppers, canned tomatoes, or spinach are great for extra color and nutrition.
• Switch the Protein: Use mild Italian sausage or sweet Italian sausage (or even chicken sausage!) if you’re not a fan of spicy food.
• Switch the Pasta: Penne pasta, rigatoni pasta, or fettuccine are all great options.
• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or add a splash of chicken stock or pasta water to thin the sauce.
• Go Tomato-Based: Stir in some tomato paste or tomato sauce for a heartier, red sauce version.
• Herbs and Spices: Add fennel seeds, fresh basil, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra depth.

How to Make Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

For full recipe details, including ingredient measurements see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here are my step by step directions for making this creamy Italian sausage pasta:

1. Cook Pasta

Bring large pot of water (salted water) to boil. Add in pasta and stir. Cook to al dente according to package directions and drain.

2. Cook Sausage

Remove sausage from its casings and brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to a plate.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat until golden brown. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients

Stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and cooked sausage. Toss with pasta and season with salt and black pepper.

Pro Tip: Taste for seasoning before adding salt, as many sausages already have a lot of saltiness.

5. Serve!

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan cheese if desired.

What to Serve with Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

Pair this rich and flavorful pasta with sides that complement its creamy, spicy nature. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli roasted with olive oil and black pepper make a great side.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a bright, fresh flavor.
• Antipasto Platter: Serve a selection of cured meats, olives, and marinated artichokes as a starter.

Storage + Make Ahead Directions for Pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a little chicken stock or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

To Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream.

To Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine and reheat with a splash of pasta water or cream just before serving.

More Alfredo Pasta Dishes to Try!

This spicy Italian sausage pasta is one the whole family will love and everything you need for a busy weeknight. Its bold flavors, creamy sauce, and endless variations make it a pasta dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it tonight and let me know how you customized it! The printable recipe card is below! Have a great day, friends! 🙂

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.