This creamy Italian sausage pasta is a rich, comforting meal packed with bold flavors. Spicy Italian sausage, garlic, onions, and pasta are coated in a luscious white wine cream sauce with Parmesan and pepper jack cheese. It’s a quick 30-minute dinner that feels restaurant-quality but is incredibly easy to make at home.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients List
12 oz medium pasta shells (or bow-tie, elbows, rigatoni, or other short pasta)
1 lb hot Italian sausage (or about 19 oz sausage links, casing removed)
1 medium white onion, minced
5 garlic cloves, minced
2/3 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
2 cups heavy cream (half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter sauce)
1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for about 4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the minced onion and garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Remove Excess Grease
Use paper towels to carefully remove any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour the white wine into the skillet and simmer until it reduces by about half. This concentrates the flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan and pepper jack cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and fold it into the sauce until every piece is coated.
Step 9: Serve
Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette
Pair with a fresh green salad
Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Tips & Variations
Use mild Italian sausage if you prefer less spice.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Replace pepper jack with mozzarella for a milder cheese blend.
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving.
