This creamy spaghetti dish is cooked in just one pot, making it super easy to clean up! With delicious Italian sausage, it’s a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.
You won’t believe how quick and tasty this is! I love to sprinkle some cheese on top right before serving. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! You can choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use turkey or chicken sausage instead, which still offers great flavor.
Chicken Broth: It adds depth to the dish. If you’re cooking for vegetarians or want a lighter broth, vegetable broth is a suitable substitute. Homemade is always best if you have the time!
Heavy Cream: This gives the pasta its creaminess. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or, if dairy-free, try a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works well, but you can substitute it with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for health or dietary needs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pastas can vary.
How Do I Get the Pasta Just Right Without Overcooking It?
Getting the pasta perfectly cooked is crucial in this dish. It helps to cook it in the same pot as other ingredients, absorbing flavors. Here’s how to do it well:
- After combining everything in the pot, bring to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Start checking the texture a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. You want it al dente—firm but not hard.
- If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is done, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth to keep things creamy.
Cooking pasta this way not only brings out flavor but also simplifies your cleanup. Enjoy your meal!
Creamy One-Pot Spaghetti with Italian Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy spaghetti dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
First, heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the sausage and set it aside, but leave the tasty fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened, then add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute or so, just until you can smell the garlic aroma—delicious!
3. Combine Broth and Cream:
Now pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!). Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Add Spaghetti and Seasonings:
Next, add the broken spaghetti, dried oregano, dried basil, and the browned sausage back to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine it evenly.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick, for about 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for the pasta to be al dente, and for the sauce to thicken a bit.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Once the pasta is just right, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your comforting, creamy spaghetti with Italian sausage is ready to go! Serve it up hot, garnished with some chopped fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for regular spaghetti. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as different types of pasta may require slightly different cooking durations. Keep an eye on the pasta to achieve al dente perfection!
How Can I Reduce the Creaminess of the Sauce?
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream to 1/2 cup and replace it with more chicken broth or a splash of water. This will still maintain some creaminess but lessen the overall richness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply swap the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as it can thicken when stored.
