Looking for a pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor? This Tomato Basil Pasta with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food! Made with orecchiette pasta, savory ground sausage, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The fresh basil and tangy white wine add a gourmet touch, while the quick preparation makes it easy for busy schedules. Whether you’re a pasta lover, a fan of Italian-inspired recipes, or searching for a family-friendly meal, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

1 cup half-and-half
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon each: onion powder, oregano, parsley
¼ teaspoon garlic salt

Sausage, Pasta, and Other Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil
½ pound ground sausage (hot, sweet, or mild; see Notes)
½ cup dry white wine (see Notes)
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon softened cream cheese (optional but recommended)
¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ pound orecchiette pasta (see Notes)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
8–10 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade (see Notes)
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:
In a large measuring cup or bowl with a spout, combine the half-and-half, chicken broth, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, onion powder, oregano, parsley, and garlic salt. Set aside. Measure all remaining ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Cook the Sausage:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7 minutes). Remove the sausage and set it aside.
Deglaze the Pan:
Turn off the heat. Add the white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a silicone spatula. Set the heat to medium and simmer until the wine is reduced by half, about 4 minutes.
Build the Sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Melt the butter in the skillet, then gradually sprinkle in the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes, until the flour loses its raw smell.
Cook the Pasta:
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions. Drain once cooked and set aside.
Finish the Sauce:
Slowly pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth consistency. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Add the cherry tomatoes and cream cheese, stirring until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and partially cover it, keeping the sauce warm while the pasta finishes cooking.
Combine and Serve:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Stir in the lemon juice, if using, and remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Sausage is comfort food at its best! The rich and savory sauce is perfectly balanced with a touch of heat and tang. Combined with hearty sausage, fresh basil, and orecchiette pasta, this dish is a complete meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Tips

Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil will elevate the flavor.
Don’t rush the sauce: Adding the liquid slowly ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Season as you go: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings throughout cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein options: Swap sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
No wine: Substitute the wine with additional chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon for acidity.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and sausage in advance. Store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What type of wine should I use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. Avoid sweet wines.

Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serve with a glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Top with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for extra heat.

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Tomato Basil Pasta with Sausage—comfort food that’s sure to impress!