Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage – A Rich, Herby, Comfort Pasta
This Creamy Pesto Penne with Sausage combines tender penne pasta with a rich, creamy pesto sauce and flavorful sausage. The basil pesto brings freshness, while cream adds smoothness and balance. Sausage provides a savory, slightly spiced element that makes the dish hearty and filling. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully for a satisfying bite every time. A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s both simple and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 250g penne pasta
- 200g Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled)
- 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook sausage until browned and fully cooked.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, letting it simmer gently.
- Add pesto and mix until the sauce turns smooth and green.
- Toss in cooked pasta and mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and chili flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
- Use high-quality pesto for best flavor.
- Cream helps balance pesto’s intensity.
- Sausage can be mild or spicy based on preference.
- Pasta water improves sauce consistency.
- Fresh Parmesan enhances richness.
- Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Homemade pesto adds freshness.
- Adjust seasoning after adding cheese.