Penne & Sausage in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe ๐
Overview:
This delightful dish, Penne & Sausage in Creamy Parmesan Sauce, is a creation born out of necessity and convenience, yet it delivers a flavor punch that will have your taste buds singing. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying, this recipe combines hearty penne pasta with savory sweet Italian sausage, all smothered in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Let’s dive into the culinary magic and bring this dish to life!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Penne pasta |
| 1 | Sweet Italian sausage link |
| 2 tbsp | Butter |
| 3 | Garlic cloves |
| – | Salt |
| – | Fresh coarse ground black pepper |
| – | Red pepper flakes |
| 3 tbsp | All-purpose flour |
| 1 1/2 cups | Milk |
| 1/2 tsp | Dried oregano |
| 1/2 tsp | Dried basil |
| 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese |
| 3 | Scallions |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by removing the sausage from its casing if necessary. Then, chop the garlic cloves, and slice the scallions for garnish.
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Brown the Sausage: In a large wok or saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage and brown it, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step infuses the dish with rich, savory flavors.
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Cook the Penne: While the sausage is browning, cook the penne pasta in a pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Aim for al dente perfection to ensure the pasta maintains a satisfying texture.
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Sautรฉ the Aromatics: Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the chopped garlic to the pan. Sautรฉ the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, infusing the sausage with aromatic goodness.
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Season to Perfection: Season the sausage and garlic mixture with salt, fresh coarse ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These spices add depth and dimension to the dish, tantalizing your taste buds with each bite.
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Create the Creamy Base: Push the sausage mixture to one side of the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the empty space. Allow it to melt and then sprinkle the flour over the melted butter. Stir well to ensure the flour is fully absorbed, creating a roux that will thicken the sauce.
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Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously to incorporate it into the roux. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken and become creamy as the flavors meld together.
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Infuse with Herbs and Cheese: Once the sauce begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and add the dried oregano, dried basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, allowing the cheese to melt and infuse the sauce with its rich, nutty flavor.
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Simmer to Perfection: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness. This slow simmer allows the flavors to intensify and meld together, creating a decadent sauce that coats each strand of pasta perfectly.
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Bring it All Together: Drain the cooked penne pasta and add it directly to the wok or skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly, ensuring every bite is infused with the rich flavors of the sausage and Parmesan sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: To finish, top the Penne & Sausage in Creamy Parmesan Sauce with freshly chopped scallions for a pop of freshness and color. For an extra kick, sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of this homemade Italian-inspired dish!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 988.8
- Fat Content: 46.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 19.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 103.8mg
- Sodium Content: 1652.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 106g
- Fiber Content: 13.2g
- Sugar Content: 1.4g
- Protein Content: 39g
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can use turkey or chicken sausage and substitute low-fat milk for a healthier twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
This Penne & Sausage in Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and resourcefulness in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
