Spicy Italian Sausage Penne

Spicy Italian Sausage Penne
Spicy Italian Sausage Penne

Spicy Italian Sausage Penne Pasta Recipe (Creamy Tomato Sauce)

If you love bold flavors and creamy pasta dishes, this Spicy Italian Sausage Penne is a must-try! Inspired by a dish I used to crave daily at a restaurant called 220 in Birmingham, Michigan, this recipe brings together spicy Italian sausage, a rich tomato cream sauce, and tender penne pasta for the ultimate comfort food.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.


Why You’ll Love This Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

  • The combination of hot Italian sausage and sun-dried tomatoes adds depth and spice.

  • A splash of white wine enhances the creamy tomato sauce.

  • Ready in about an hour, this pasta dish is simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed

  • 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 2 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (about 3 tablespoons)

  • ¼ cup white wine

  • 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1 pound penne pasta

Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving


How to Make Spicy Italian Sausage Penne

  1. Cook the sausage
    In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

  2. Build the flavor
    Increase heat to medium-high. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, and white wine. Cook, stirring, until the wine has evaporated (about 1–2 minutes).

  3. Simmer the sauce
    Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Cook the pasta
    While the sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain well.

  5. Finish the sauce
    Stir the heavy cream into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Let the pasta rest in the sauce for 5 minutes before serving.


Serving Suggestions

Serve your spicy Italian sausage pasta hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a side of garlic bread, and a simple green salad. It makes about 6–8 servings—perfect for family dinner or meal prep leftovers.



Spicy Italian Sausage Penne


Try these other pasta recipes you are sure to love!

Comments