Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! This incredibly flavorful **One-Pot Creamy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta** brings together savory Italian sausage, a luscious tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked penne all in a single pot. It’s the epitome of comfort food, bursting with rich flavors, and astonishingly, ready to serve in just 30 minutes. Say goodbye to piles of dishes and hello to stress-free, delicious dining!
If you’re a fan of our hearty pasta dishes, you might also enjoy our Sun-Dried Tomato-Chicken Pasta, a delightful one-skillet creation, or explore another classic like our Chicken Penne Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce for more creamy pasta inspiration.
One-Pot Creamy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta: Your Ultimate Weeknight Recipe
Busy weeknights demand quick, satisfying meals, and this **Creamy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta** consistently emerges as a champion in our household! Imagine succulent Italian sausage – whether you prefer mild or crave a spicy kick – simmering in a velvety tomato-infused cream sauce, embracing tender penne pasta, and culminating in a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a testament to pasta perfection, delivered with remarkable ease.
The best part? This entire culinary journey unfolds in just one pot, drastically cutting down on cleanup time. Minimal prep, maximum flavor, and a single pot to wash – these are the big wins that make this **One-Pot Penne Pasta** a staple for any home cook seeking both convenience and gourmet taste.
Quick Meal Inspiration
Craving more effortless one-pot dishes that deliver on flavor? Give our highly-rated One-Pot Spaghetti a try for classic comfort, or whip up our no-fuss One-Pot Hamburger Helper for a nostalgic twist. For a hearty chicken meal, our One-Pot Chicken Orzo is another fantastic option. These recipes consistently receive rave reviews for their simplicity and incredible taste!
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Sausage Penne
Crafting this delightful **One-Pot Creamy Penne Pasta** requires a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in building the deep, satisfying flavor profile that makes this dish so irresistible. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
| Ingredient | What It Does / Tip or Swap |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | The foundation of flavor! It helps sauté the aromatics and browns the sausage beautifully, kickstarting the dish with a rich base. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. |
| Onion & Garlic | These aromatic powerhouses provide essential depth and sweetness. To save precious time, feel free to use pre-chopped onion or jarred minced garlic. They’ll still impart fantastic flavor. |
| Italian sausage | The star protein of this dish! Choose mild Italian sausage for a classic flavor, or opt for spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a little heat. Ground chicken or turkey sausage can be excellent leaner alternatives, though they may alter the flavor profile slightly. Ensure casings are removed if using links. |
| Italian seasoning | A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, this seasoning effortlessly delivers that authentic, herb-forward Italian taste, tying all the flavors together. |
| Tomato paste & Crushed tomatoes | Together, these form the robust, rich, and vibrant tomato base for our sauce. Tomato paste adds intense, concentrated tomato flavor and depth, while crushed tomatoes provide texture and body. For an even deeper flavor, consider fire-roasted crushed tomatoes. |
| Chicken stock/broth | Far more flavorful than water, chicken stock (or broth) adds savory depth and provides the necessary liquid to cook the pasta directly in the sauce, allowing it to absorb all the delicious flavors. |
| Penne pasta | The perfect pasta shape for this one-pot meal! Its tube-like structure and ridged surface effectively capture and hold the creamy tomato sauce. Cooking it directly in the sauce infuses every bite with flavor. |
| Heavy whipping cream | This is what transforms our robust tomato sauce into a luxuriously creamy masterpiece. For the best consistency and richest flavor, always use full-fat heavy whipping cream. Low-fat alternatives or milk typically won’t achieve the same desirable thickness and creaminess. |
Why You Will Love This One-Pot Sausage Penne Pasta
Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this **Easy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta** offers a multitude of benefits that make it a standout recipe for any occasion, especially those busy weeknights:
- Unbeatable Convenience: The “one-pot” aspect is a game-changer. Everything from browning the sausage to simmering the pasta happens in a single vessel, dramatically reducing your post-dinner cleanup.
- Lightning Fast: From start to finish, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s quicker than ordering takeout and infinitely more satisfying.
- Incredible Flavor Depth: By cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the savory notes from the sausage, robust tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Every bite is infused with rich, complex flavor that you won’t get from boiling pasta separately.
- Creamy Perfection: The addition of heavy cream at the end creates a silky, luxurious sauce that perfectly coats each piece of penne and complements the hearty sausage.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize the spice level with mild or hot sausage. You can also incorporate your favorite vegetables or swap out the protein (see ingredient tips above).
- Family Favorite: This comforting and hearty dish is a surefire hit with both adults and children, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
How To Make Sausage Penne Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide & Pro Tips
Making this **Quick Penne Pasta with Italian Sausage** is wonderfully straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps and tips for a perfect meal every time:
- Master Your Mise en Place (Prep Ahead): Before you even turn on the stove, gather and measure all your ingredients. This “prep ahead” strategy ensures a smooth and stress-free cooking experience, allowing you to move seamlessly from one step to the next.
- Choose the Right Pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is essential. This prevents the pasta from clumping and sticking together, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb the sauce perfectly. It also provides ample space for stirring.
- Brown the Sausage and Aromatics: Heat your olive oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Push the aromatics to the sides, then add the Italian sausage to the center. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, ensuring it’s well-browned for maximum flavor. You can drain off excess grease here if you prefer a lighter dish, though it adds to the richness.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper with the sausage and aromatics. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and deepen in flavor. This step is crucial for a rich sauce.
- Introduce Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Stir everything together well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the dry penne pasta and stir thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (small bubbles forming). Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally – especially from the bottom – to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot. Continue cooking until the pasta is nearly al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Remember, it will continue to soften slightly off the heat.
- Achieve Creamy Dreaminess: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Continue to gently stir for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cream to incorporate and the sauce to thicken slightly as the pasta finishes cooking to a perfect al dente texture. Don’t worry if the sauce seems a bit saucy; the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it rests.
- Serve and Garnish: Give the pasta one final good stir before serving hot. For an extra touch of freshness and flavor, garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for a Flawless One-Pot Penne:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta Initially: Since the pasta will continue to absorb liquid and soften in the hot sauce after the cream is added, aim for slightly undercooked (firm) when you add the cream. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Maintain Low Heat for Cream: Once the heavy cream is added, keep the heat low or remove from heat entirely. High heat can cause the cream to separate or curdle, resulting in a less smooth sauce.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before the final serve. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed. The flavors will deepen as it cooks.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: While simple, the quality of your Italian sausage and crushed tomatoes can make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Which Sauce Is Best For Penne Pasta? Exploring Versatility
Penne pasta, with its distinctive tube shape and ridged surface, is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent canvas for a wide array of sauces. While **creamy tomato sauces** like the one in this recipe are often a top pick due to how well the sauce clings to and fills the pasta, penne truly shines with various flavor profiles. The ridges on the pasta are designed to capture chunky sauces, while its sturdy form holds up beautifully to heavier ingredients.
Here are some of our best penne pasta recipes with sauces that pair wonderfully, demonstrating its adaptability:
- Cajun Sausage Pasta: A spicy, creamy, and vibrant sauce with the perfect blend of Cajun flavors. The penne cradles the rich sauce and diced vegetables beautifully.
- Vegetable Pasta: A fantastic meatless penne pasta recipe, allowing the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables to shine through a light yet satisfying sauce. Penne’s structure ensures every bite is packed with veggies and sauce.
- Buffalo Chicken Pasta: For those who love a kick, this dish combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with tender chicken and a creamy base, perfectly coating the penne for a flavorful experience.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
While this **Italian Sausage Penne Pasta** is undeniably at its peak of deliciousness when served fresh from the stove, you can certainly enjoy leftovers! For optimal flavor and texture, we recommend enjoying this dish within 3 days. Pasta tends to absorb more liquid as it sits, so the sauce may thicken further.
To Store: Allow any leftover pasta to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency if it has become too thick.
Meal Prep Shortcut: For an even quicker meal on a busy night, you can sauté the onion, garlic, and brown the Italian sausage ahead of time. Store this cooked mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days, then simply pull it out and proceed with the recipe from step 4 when you’re ready to complete the dish!
What To Serve With One-Pot Penne Pasta: Perfect Pairings
This **One-Pot Creamy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta** is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple side can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic complements that balance the richness of the pasta and add freshness to your plate:
Green Salads
Garden Salad
A light, crisp garden salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, adding crunch and vibrant freshness.
Appetizers
Life-Changing No-Knead Dinner Rolls
Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious creamy sauce, these soft dinner rolls are truly life-changing.
Side Dishes
Roasted Vegetables
A medley of roasted vegetables adds nutrients, color, and a delightful caramelized sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory pasta.
Salads
Caprese Salad Recipe
For a taste of Italian summer, a simple Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light and refreshing accompaniment.
One-Pot Creamy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta
Video
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven (at least 5-quart)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1-1/2 cups diced yellow onion (about 1 large onion)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed if using links)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for rich, concentrated flavor)
- 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste, start with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper)
- 1 (32-ounce) container chicken stock or broth (4 cups)
- 4 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (full-fat for best results)
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving, optional)
Instructions
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes or until the onions are softened and slightly golden. Push the aromatics to the sides of the pot and add the Italian sausage to the center. Allow it to sear briefly for a deeper flavor, then break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink and is nicely browned.
- Add the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to taste (we recommend starting with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper). Sauté, stirring constantly for 1 minute, allowing the tomato paste to toast and deepen in color. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the uncooked penne pasta and stir thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (you’ll see small bubbles forming). Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally (especially from the bottom) to prevent the pasta from sticking and to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking until the pasta is nearly done, just shy of al dente.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Pour in the heavy cream and continue to gently stir for an additional 1–2 minutes, or until the pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture. It’s okay if the sauce still seems quite liquidy; the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it cools and sits.
- Give the pasta a final good stir before serving hot. If desired, garnish with freshly ripped basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!
Recipe Notes
Note 2: Tomato Paste is Key: For this recipe, stick to tomato paste. It is far more concentrated and intense in flavor than other tomato products like tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, providing the deep, robust tomato essence needed for the sauce.
Note 3: Heavy Cream for Richness: We do not recommend swapping out milk (even whole milk) or low-fat alternatives for the heavy cream. The high fat content of heavy cream is essential for balancing the acidity of the tomato paste, creating a luxuriously smooth texture, and properly thickening the sauce. Nut milks or other dairy-free alternatives typically do not yield the same creamy results.
Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small amount of chicken broth or water to thin the sauce if needed.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.
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