Savory Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage is a simple yet delicious dinner featuring al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and seasoned Italian sausage. This dish combines tender pasta, savory sausage, and the vibrant flavors of garlic, tomatoes, basil, and spices.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta:
Cavatappi noodles work perfectly for this dish, but any tubular pasta will hold the sauce well. Homemade shaped noodles are also a great option. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Italian Sausage:
Mild Italian sausage is used in this recipe, but you can substitute ground pork sausage, ground turkey, ground chicken, or even bratwurst. Adjust seasonings as needed to maintain the desired flavor profile.
Tomatoes:
Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. Roma or beefsteak tomatoes can be used as substitutes, but they may change the taste, texture, and water content. Tomato paste is also included to enhance the tomato flavor.
Basil Leaves:
Fresh basil leaves are essential for this recipe. You’ll need about 10 leaves, chopped to make 1/4 cup. If using dried basil, a little over a tablespoon is sufficient.
Red Pepper Flakes:
These add a bit of heat to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit them or adjust the amount to taste.
Why Reserve Pasta Water?
Pasta water adds flavor and helps bind the sauce to the noodles, ensuring a rich and cohesive dish.
Variations to Tomato Basil Pasta
This dish is versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients:
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra color and texture.
- Onions: Sauteed onions can add a savory and sweet element. Cook them with the sausage.
- Heavy Cream: For a creamier sauce, incorporate a small amount of heavy cream or half-and-half.
How to Store Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage
Allow the pasta to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225g) cavatappi noodles
- 1 pound (450g) ground mild Italian sausage
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup (10g) chopped fresh basil leaves (about 10 leaves)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Parmesan cheese, grated, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Set the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water aside.
Prepare the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Make the Sauce:
Add the tomato paste, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil (reserving some for garnish), salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and ¼ cup (60ml) of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Serve the pasta garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and reserved basil.
Enjoy this savory and satisfying Tomato Basil Pasta with Italian Sausage, perfect for any occasion!
