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“Make a hearty and flavorful Italian Sausage Pasta with perfectly cooked cavatappi, a rich tomato-based sauce, and melted mozzarella. This easy pasta recipe combines the bold taste of Italian sausage with aromatic spices, creamy cheese, and a hint of heat. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish offers a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal option that’s simple to prepare and packed with layers of delicious flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 lb. ground Italian sausage (hot, mild, or sweet)
½ cup dry white wine (or substitute chicken broth)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes (undrained; Rotel works well too)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese
½ lb. cavatappi pasta (or substitute penne)

Sauce Ingredients:

15 oz. tomato sauce
¾ cup beef broth
¼ cup half and half
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Hot Sauce)
½ beef bouillon cube (see notes)
¾ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, basil, parsley, mustard powder

Instructions

Prep Work:

If planning to use the oven to melt the mozzarella in the final step, preheat it to 350°F.
Combine all sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out all remaining ingredients before starting.

Cook the Sausage:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 3 minutes, breaking it into crumbles as it browns. Add the diced onions and continue cooking until the onions are softened and the sausage is fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess grease and set the sausage mixture aside on a plate. Turn off the heat.

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add ½ tablespoon of salt once boiling and cook the pasta to al dente. Drain once cooked.

Make the Sauce:

Using the same skillet, add the white wine over medium heat. Allow it to bubble and reduce by half, about 4 minutes. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up and incorporate the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the butter, garlic, and flour, stirring until combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly add the prepared sauce mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and maintain a smooth consistency.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, including their juices. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Return the sausage and onion mixture to the skillet and stir to combine. Partially cover the skillet and simmer while the pasta cooks, stirring occasionally.

Combine and Serve:

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully incorporated. Add ⅓ of the mozzarella cheese, saving the rest for topping.
Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce until fully coated.
Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese, or transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Hearty: The combination of Italian sausage and a creamy, flavorful tomato sauce creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different sausage varieties or pasta shapes.
One-Pan Convenience: The sauce comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: With gooey melted cheese and robust flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike.

Tips

For Best Results: Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for superior melting and flavor.
Cooking Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to bake it, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Wine Substitute: If you don’t have white wine, use chicken broth for similar depth of flavor.
Browned Bits: Don’t skip scraping up the browned bits in the pan; they add a depth of flavor to the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Cheese Variations: Try Asiago, Romano, or Fontina cheese for a twist on the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
Pasta Choices: Swap cavatappi or penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.

What can I use instead of beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes without significantly altering the flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Beverages: Serve with a glass of red wine like Chianti or a refreshing iced tea.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or mix with cooked rice for a new twist on the dish.