Rushing through a busy week, I discovered a blend of flavors waiting to transform my dinner routine. This Easy Sausage Pesto Pasta brings together savory Italian sausage, fresh pesto, and al dente pasta in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick dinner solution, it gives you a hearty, satisfying meal without compromising on taste. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—you can easily make it gluten-free with a simple pasta swap or customize it with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a hungry family, this pasta dish promises to please. Curious to see how easily you can whip this up and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why choose Sausage Pesto Pasta? Quick, satisfying meal: In just under 30 minutes, you can prepare a fulfilling dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile ingredients: This recipe allows you to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, making it easy to adapt for any dietary needs. Rich, fresh flavors: The savory sausage combined with vibrant pesto delivers a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Gluten-free option: With a simple swap to gluten-free pasta, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish without worry. Crowd-pleaser: Whether cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds! Looking for more easy weeknight meals? Check out our delicious collection of 30-minute recipes. Sausage Pesto Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Pasta – Use your favorite pasta shape or gluten-free pasta for a satisfying, gluten-free meal. For the Sausage Mixture • Italian Sausage – Adds a savory flavor and heartiness; consider chicken sausage or plant-based alternatives for variety. • Minced Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is best but garlic powder can work in a pinch. • Cherry Tomatoes – Provides moisture and a burst of sweetness; sun-dried tomatoes are a delicious alternative for concentrated flavor. For the Sauce • Pesto Sauce – Delivers fresh and vibrant flavor; store-bought pesto saves time but homemade is an excellent option. • Olive Oil – Essential for cooking the sausage and drizzling on top; avocado oil can also be used for a different taste. For the Topping • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a creamy, savory touch; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. • Fresh Basil – Imparts freshness and an earthy taste; consider other herbs like parsley for a different spin. Curious about how these ingredients come together to create the mouthwatering Sausage Pesto Pasta? Let’s move on to the preparation! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Pesto Pasta Step 1: Boil the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to steam off while you prepare the sausage mixture. Step 2: Cook the Sausage In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F. You want it to be golden and crispy for the best flavor in your Sausage Pesto Pasta. Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes After the sausage is browned, add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes begin to soften, releasing their juices. Keep an eye on the mixture, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn, as you want the combination to be aromatic and colorful, adding brightness to your dish. Step 4: Combine with Pesto Lower the heat to medium-low, and stir in the pesto sauce, mixing well until it’s evenly distributed among the sausage and tomatoes. Allow the mixture to warm for about 2 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and create a luscious sauce that seamlessly coats the pasta. Step 5: Toss with Pasta Now, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sausage and pesto mixture. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes. You may want to add a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture feels too dry, ensuring your Sausage Pesto Pasta remains creamy and delicious. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the flavorful pasta to serving plates. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for a pop of color and taste. Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting, delighting your family or guests with this quick and satisfying meal. How to Store and Freeze Sausage Pesto Pasta Fridge: Store leftover Sausage Pesto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to keep it creamy. Airtight Tips: Make sure to seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn and preserve that delicious taste. Expert Tips for Sausage Pesto Pasta • Al Dente Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente; this prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. • Preheat the Skillet: Always preheat the skillet before adding the sausage. A good sear enhances flavor and texture, making your Sausage Pesto Pasta even more delicious. • Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins! Spinach, bell peppers, or grilled chicken can be great additions, enhancing the dish’s versatility. • Pasta Water in the Mix: If your dish seems a bit dry, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can add creaminess and help the sauce cling to the pasta. • Avoid Overcooking Ingredients: Be cautious not to overcook the garlic or tomatoes; just a few minutes will intensify their flavors without risking bitterness. • Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, reheat gently over medium-low heat; this keeps the Sausage Pesto Pasta creamy without drying it out. Sausage Pesto Pasta Variations Feel the freedom to mix and match flavors and ingredients for your own delightful twist on this dish! Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a nutty taste that’s completely plant-based. Creamy yet dairy-free, this simple swap will keep everyone happy at the table! Vegetarian Delight: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini for a hearty, meat-free meal. The umami from the mushrooms will elevate the dish, adding depth and flavor while keeping it satisfying. Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a lighter dish. This twist transforms the meal into a refreshing, guilt-free option that retains all those delicious flavors! Flavor Boost: Toss in some red pepper flakes for a delightful kick that will tantalize your taste buds. A little heat goes a long way, igniting your palate and providing a delicious edge to the dish! Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts as a crunchy topping for added texture and richness. This lovely crunch not only enhances the mouthfeel but also adds a delightful nutty flavor to your pasta! Green Goodness: Mix in fresh spinach or kale for an added nutrient boost and a pop of vibrant color. These greens not only elevate the health factor but also create a beautiful contrast against the creamy pesto! Herb Swap: Try using fresh cilantro or dill instead of basil for a unique flavor profile that excites the senses. These herbs infuse the dish with a fresh twist, giving a completely new characteristic to your meal! Extra Veggies: Incorporate roasted bell peppers or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair that’s bursting with flavor. Layering in these vibrant additions enhances both taste and texture, making each bite a delightful adventure! For other tips on transforming your weeknight meals, explore our collection of easy weeknight recipes to inspire your next culinary creation! Make Ahead Options These Easy Sausage Pesto Pasta bowls are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and sausage mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To prepare ahead, simply cook your pasta as instructed, drain, and toss it with a tiny splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. The sausage can be browned and mixed with garlic and tomatoes, then refrigerated until you’re ready to combine everything. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sausage mix gently and toss it with the pasta and pesto, ensuring it tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! What to Serve with Easy Sausage Pesto Pasta? Step into a delightful culinary adventure where vibrant flavors intertwine, creating a dinner experience that excites the senses. Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad pairs beautifully, adding a crunchy texture and a light contrast to the rich pasta. Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery taste of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover pesto sauce, enhancing every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus bring a colorful and nutritious complement to this hearty meal. Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken can elevate the dish, adding protein and a smoky flavor that beautifully harmonizes with the pesto. Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp finish, balancing the savory aspects of the sausage and pesto. Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkling toast pine nuts on top adds a delightful crunch, while their subtle nuttiness complements the fresh basil perfectly. Fresh Fruit Grapes: Serve a side of juicy grapes or a fruit salad for a sweet and refreshing palate cleanser after the savory pasta. With these pairings, your Easy Sausage Pesto Pasta transforms into a memorable dinner that satisfies both body and soul. Sausage Pesto Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for Sausage Pesto Pasta? You can use any pasta shape you love for this dish! For a gluten-free option, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results! How long can I store leftover Sausage Pesto Pasta? Leftover Sausage Pesto Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Always date your containers to ensure you enjoy it at its best! Can I freeze Sausage Pesto Pasta? Absolutely! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed. What should I do if the sauce seems dry when mixing? If you find your pasta looks a bit dry while mixing, don’t worry! Just add a splash of reserved pasta water—start with a tablespoon, and gradually add more if necessary. This will help the sauce become creamy and luscious, ensuring it clings perfectly to the pasta. Is this recipe adaptable to dietary needs? Very! You can easily adjust the Sausage Pesto Pasta to suit various dietary preferences. Substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition, while keeping it gluten-free by choosing the appropriate pasta type. How should I reheat leftover Sausage Pesto Pasta? For the best results, reheat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet. If the pasta looks a little dry, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil while stirring. This helps restore the creamy texture and keeps it delicious! Easy Sausage Pesto Pasta: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal This Sausage Pesto Pasta is a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights, coming together in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Pasta Use your favorite pasta shape or gluten-free pastaFor the Sausage Mixture1 lb Italian Sausage Consider chicken sausage or plant-based alternatives3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic is best1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; sun-dried tomatoes are a delicious alternativeFor the Sauce1 cup Pesto Sauce Store-bought or homemade1 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for cooking the sausageFor the Topping1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative1/4 cup Fresh Basil Chopped; consider parsley for a different spin Equipment Large PotColanderlarge skilletSpatulaTongs Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage Pesto PastaBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.After the sausage is browned, add minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until garlic is fragrant and tomatoes soften.Lower heat to medium-low and stir in the pesto sauce. Mix well and warm for about 2 minutes.Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss until the pasta is well-coated, about 1-2 minutes. Add reserved pasta water if needed.Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFeel free to customize with additional vegetables or proteins. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. 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