Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage

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Are you craving a delicious and satisfying pasta dish? Look no further than Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage.

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Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage
Prep
5 min
Cook
20 min
Total
25 min
Servings
2

Method

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil.

  2. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook for about 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked but still firm.

  3. Drain the cooked pasta and transfer it to a bowl.

  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  5. Cook the sausage in the skillet, stirring occasionally, until it turns brown and crumbly, usually for about 5 to 7 minutes.

  6. Add the cooked sausage to the bowl with the pasta.

  7. In a small saucepan, whisk together the pesto sauce mix, milk, and olive oil.

  8. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly.

  9. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer until it thickens, which usually takes about 3 minutes.

  10. Pour the thickened sauce over the pasta and sausage mixture in the bowl.

  11. Toss the ingredients together to evenly coat the pasta and sausage with the sauce.

  12. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can substitute fat-free milk.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying pasta dish? Look no further than Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage. This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of pesto, the creaminess of a decadent sauce, and the savory goodness of sausage. It's a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence.

Why Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage?

Imagine a plate of al dente penne pasta tossed in a velvety pesto sauce, generously coated with creamy goodness. Each bite is a burst of flavor, with the fragrant basil pesto, the richness of the cream, and the satisfying savory notes from the sausage. It's a flavor symphony that will leave you wanting more.

The Perfect Balance

What sets Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage apart is the perfect balance of flavors. The pesto adds freshness and a vibrant herbal note, while the creamy sauce brings a luxurious and velvety texture. The sausage adds an extra layer of depth and complexity, with its savory and slightly spicy profile. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious combination that will tantalize your taste buds.

Easy to Make

Don't be intimidated by the name. Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage may sound fancy, but it's actually quite easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage

Start by cooking the penne pasta until it's al dente. While the pasta is cooking, brown the sausage in a pan until it's cooked through and has a nice golden color. Drain any excess fat from the sausage and set it aside.

In a separate saucepan, combine the pesto sauce and heavy cream. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it's warm and well combined. Be sure to stir it frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pan with the pesto cream sauce. Toss the pasta until it's well coated with the sauce. Add the cooked sausage and gently mix everything together.

Now, it's time to serve and enjoy! Plate the Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage and garnish it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil. The creamy sauce clings to the penne, and each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne works well with this dish, but feel free to experiment with other shapes like fusilli or rigatoni.

. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While sausage adds a wonderful flavor to this dish, you can substitute it with chicken, shrimp, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

. How long does it take to make this dish?

The total cooking time for Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage is approximately 30 minutes, including prep time. It's a quick and easy recipe that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before reheating.

. Can I make the dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this dish by using a plant-based cream alternative and skipping the Parmesan cheese. It will still be delicious and creamy.

. What can I serve as a side dish?

A simple green salad or some garlic bread would complement this dish perfectly. The freshness of the salad or the crunchiness of the bread would balance out the richness of the pasta.

. Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this dish. Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers would be excellent additions.

In conclusion, Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage is a delightful pasta dish that combines the richness of pesto, the creaminess of a decadent sauce, and the savory goodness of sausage. It's a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, it's a dish that you can customize to your liking. So, why not give it a try and experience the symphony of flavors yourself?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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