Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta with Italian Sausage
A comforting pasta dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes and savory Italian sausage, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice: penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti) Choose your favorite type of pasta.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil Provides rich flavor.
- 1 pound Italian sausage Use different sausage types according to preference.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Add flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust based on spice preference.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated For garnishing.
- Fresh basil, for garnish Adds freshness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste For seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your choice of pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat until shimmering.
Cooking
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned all the way through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together well to coat the pasta.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, tossing gently to melt it slightly and combine with the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the pasta in large, shallow bowls or plates, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For variations, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a leaner option, or add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. To store leftovers, cool to room temperature and keep in an airtight container for up to three days.