Description
This Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta recipe combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the bright zest of lemon, all brought together in a creamy, indulgent sauce. It’s a comforting yet vibrant dish that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- zest of 1 lemon
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- salt and black pepper to taste
- chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet, cook sausage until browned. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cream. Simmer, then stir in Parmesan until creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add drained pasta and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Season and serve hot, garnished with parsley and Parmesan.
Notes
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt (add off heat to prevent curdling).
- You can also use chicken or turkey sausage. Add sautéed spinach or peas for a veggie boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
