# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Meats
02 - 10 oz Italian sausage, casings removed
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Sauce
06 - 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
07 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
08 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or mixed)
09 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheese & Garnish
11 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
# Preparation steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, approximately 4 minutes.
03 - Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Pour in crushed tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the mixture simmer for 3 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, season with salt and black pepper, and allow the sauce to gently simmer for 2 minutes.
06 - Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to evenly coat with sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.
07 - Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
