Are you in need of a quick and flavorful dinner idea that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than our delicious Pesto and Sausage Pasta recipe! This mouthwatering dish combines the fresh flavors of homemade basil pesto with savory Italian sausage, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to become a household favorite.
**Title: Pesto and Sausage Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz dried pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Brown the Sausage:** Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
3. **Combine Pasta and Sausage:** In the same skillet, add the cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water. Stir in the basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and cooked Italian sausage. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Season and Serve:** Season the Pesto and Sausage Pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
5. **Enjoy!:** Serve the pasta hot, straight from the skillet, or transfer to a serving dish. This Pesto and Sausage Pasta pairs perfectly with a side salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the comforting aroma of this delightful homemade meal!
By following our simple recipe, you can whip up a flavorful and satisfying Pesto and Sausage Pasta that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Try it out soon and elevate your pasta game with this deliciously satisfying recipe.
