Ricotta and Sausage Pasta

Name: Ricotta and Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 350 g penne pasta; 500 g Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 cup ricotta cheese (fresh); 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup pasta water (reserved); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); to taste salt and pepper

35 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Deliciously creamy ricotta and savoury sausage pasta that's perfect for any pasta lover.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Ricotta and sausage pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the bold flavours of Italian sausage. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The creaminess of the ricotta complements the savoury notes of the sausage beautifully, while the pasta serves as the perfect canvas to bring these flavours together. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up effortlessly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Pro tip: Using salted water enhances the pasta's flavour.

Cook the sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Sauté garlic and add spices

Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine ricotta and pasta water

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the reserved pasta water until smooth. Add this mixture to the sausage in the skillet.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of pasta water for desired sauce consistency.

Mix pasta with sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sausage and ricotta sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Pro tip: For extra creaminess, add more ricotta.

Serve and garnish

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil.

Pro tip: For a pop of colour, add cherry tomatoes.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh ricotta for a creamier texture.
Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavour.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best with ricotta and sausage?

Penne or rigatoni works best as they hold the sauce well.

How do you make pasta sauce creamy with ricotta?

Mix ricotta with reserved pasta water to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Can I use chicken sausage instead?

Yes, chicken sausage is a great alternative and lower in fat.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

No, due to the sausage. However, you can use plant-based sausage alternatives.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

This ricotta and sausage pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favourite white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a make-ahead option, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and combine it with freshly cooked pasta. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra ricotta to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency.

Nutrition per serving

650

Calories

28g

Protein

30g

Fat

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Medium25 min

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