Hey y'all! If you're craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that won't have you washing dishes all night, this one-pan spicy sausage pasta is the answer. With smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, spicy tomato sauce, it's absolutely irresistible. Ideal for weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want a satisfying meal without the fuss. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

One-pan magic means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy schedules.
Loaded with bold, spicy flavors that make every bite exciting.
Easy to customize with your favorite sausage, veggies, or spice level.
Hearty, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
14 oz (400g) spicy Italian sausage (or your favorite style), sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
14 oz (400g) penne pasta (or short pasta shape)
1 (15 oz/425g) can diced tomatoes
3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, until browned and slightly crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer Pasta

Add uncooked pasta, canned tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth to the pan. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy & Cheesy

Return the sausage to the pan. Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Remove from heat. Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of extra broth or cream to loosen it up.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Variations

Mild Version: Swap spicy sausage for sweet Italian or chicken sausage and reduce or omit red pepper flakes.
Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini during the onion sauté step for extra nutrition.
Extra Cheesy: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or provolone along with the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Required Equipment

Large deep skillet or sauté pan (with lid)
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to keep it moist. This dish does not freeze well due to the creamy sauce.

Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with a simple green salad tossed with Italian vinaigrette.
Pair with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Enjoy with a glass of bold red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Pro Tips

Prep all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking flow.
Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is perfect for this recipe.
Let the sausage get a good sear for extra depth of flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?: Yes! Any short pasta shape like rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini works well—just adjust the cooking time if needed.
Is this dish very spicy?: You can easily control the heat by adjusting the red pepper flakes and choosing mild or spicy sausage as preferred.
Can I make this dairy-free?: Swap the cream and cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and make sure your sausage is dairy-free.