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A delicious sausage and pasta skillet dinner cooked in a single pan.

Creamy One-Pan Italian Sausage & Tomato Pasta

This creamy one-pan dish features hearty Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all cooked together for an easy and delicious meal. Finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it's perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 portions
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 Onion medium, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
  • 1 can Tomato sauce (15 oz)
  • 2 1/2 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 oz Pasta (such as penne, rotini, or medium shells)
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add the Italian sausage, and cook until browned and crumbled; drain any excess grease.
  • Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes; stir to combine.
  • Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid; add more broth or water if needed.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (if using), then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  • Cover for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey, or lightly broil for 1-2 minutes if your pan is oven-safe.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a hot Italian sausage. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.