Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta

Weeknight dinners call for meals that are quick, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Enter Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta—a luscious, savory dish that combines tender penne pasta with rich, creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned turkey sausage. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready in about 30 minutes, this pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this creamy sausage pasta will quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. The turkey sausage adds lean protein and a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce made from heavy cream and chicken broth. The addition of cherry tomatoes provides a burst of freshness and color, while Italian seasoning ties all the flavors together. This recipe is adaptable, forgiving, and perfect for anyone who loves pasta but wants to keep dinner simple and delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb turkey sausage, removed from casings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot – for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook sausage and sauce
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping onion, garlic, and tomatoes

Cooking Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Sausage

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and the cooked turkey sausage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes so the tomatoes soften just a bit and the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for richness and extra flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top before serving. This adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish beautifully.

Swap Guide

• Pasta: Substitute penne with fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle for a different texture.
• Protein: Use chicken sausage or plant-based sausage alternatives if preferred.
• Dairy: Replace heavy cream with a blend of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter sauce.
• Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Insider Tips

• For a richer flavor, toast the penne pasta briefly in the skillet before boiling.
• Don’t overcook the cherry tomatoes; they should be slightly softened but still hold their shape.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese over pre-grated for a creamier melt and better taste.
• Reserve a little pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick of heat.

Save It for Later

This Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or effortless dinners later in the week.

Questions People Ask

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before reheating. This helps maintain the pasta’s texture and prevents the sauce from thickening too much. Just store both components in airtight containers in the fridge.

What can I use instead of turkey sausage?

Chicken sausage is a great alternative, or you can use ground chicken or beef if you prefer. For a meat-free option, try plant-based sausage crumbles or roasted vegetables for added heartiness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to retain a cheesy flavor.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini when sautéing the onions and garlic. This will boost the nutritional value and add more texture and flavor to your pasta.

You Might Also Like

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta – a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners.
• Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo – a hearty and spicy stew that’s full of bold flavors.
• Sausage Cream Cheese Crescents Recipe – an easy, savory appetizer perfect for game day or parties.

Final Thoughts

Weeknight Creamy Sausage Pasta is a recipe that delivers on all fronts: it’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to every piece of penne, while the turkey sausage adds a savory punch without overpowering the dish. With fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, this pasta strikes a lovely balance between rich and fresh. It’s a recipe that you can whip up on any busy evening and feel proud serving. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it to your taste and pantry staples. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your dinner lineup.

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