If you’re seeking a true weeknight hero, look no further than this Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe. It’s a celebration of bold flavors and effortless charm: juicy Italian sausage, sweet pops of peas, and a creamy Parmesan sauce all twirled around tender pasta. What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it turns humble ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort—perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or just those evenings when you want something special without any fuss.

Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is at the heart of this dish, but every ingredient works a little flavor magic. These staples each bring something essential—color, spice, richness, or that irresistible savoriness—that makes this Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe shine.

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni): A sturdy pasta holds the creamy sauce and sausage perfectly in every bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Just enough to start things off with a subtle, fruity base for cooking your sausage.
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): This adds hearty, savory depth; try spicy for a kick or mild for a classic flavor.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings its signature warmth and aromatic boost—don’t skip it!
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that wakes up the creamy sauce; totally customizable.
1 cup frozen peas (thawed): Bursts of subtle sweetness and gorgeous pops of color brighten up every forkful.
1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, silky sauce you’ll want to mop up with bread.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Deep umami, nutty notes, and a salad of creamy richness—stir it in and finish with a flourish.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Balance and sharpen all those comforting flavors to perfection.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: For fresh, vibrant color and a hint of herbaceous lift at the finish line.

How to Make Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a lively boil. Toss in your pasta—penne or rigatoni work beautifully here—and let it cook until it’s perfectly al dente according to the package directions. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is your ticket to a silky, restaurant-worthy sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

While the pasta bubbles away, heat the olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. The goal is to get those lovely crisp edges and deep flavor—this takes about 6–8 minutes. Trust that a little caramelization adds irresistible depth.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Once the sausage is gloriously browned, toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a touch of heat, the red pepper flakes. Let these sizzle for a minute, just until fragrant. This step wakes up the sausage and brings a gentle kick to our Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe.

Step 4: Add Peas and Cream

Stir in the thawed peas, letting them warm through and turn vibrant green, then reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend everything into a smooth, creamy sauce. The kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing—you’re nearly there!

Step 5: Combine and Finish the Pasta

Add the drained pasta straight into your skillet with the creamy sausage-pea mixture. Toss everything together, sprinkle in the Parmesan, and add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen as needed. Finish with a final seasoning of salt and pepper to taste. It should look glossy, rich, and utterly inviting.

How to Serve Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Top your Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley. For extra flair, sprinkle on a bit more Parmesan right at the table. A final crack of black pepper adds a little drama—and everyone loves that finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a meal on its own, but a bright mixed green salad or a platter of simply dressed arugula pairs perfectly and balances the creaminess. A side of garlicky toasted bread lets you wipe up every last drop of sauce (highly recommended).

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this into an impressive dinner-party dish by piling the pasta in a wide, shallow bowl and garnishing with delicate Parmesan shavings. Or, try serving in smaller portions as an appetizer for a family-style gathering. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adding a grating of lemon zest or a drizzle of good olive oil before serving!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers of the Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, and you’ll love how it reheats for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to two months. Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and label with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce. Give it a good stir halfway through to heat evenly and revive the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute the sausage with something lighter?

Absolutely! Swap in turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version that still brings plenty of flavor and heartiness to your Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe.

What type Main Course

Short, tubular shapes like penne or rigatoni are ideal because they hold onto the sausage and creamy sauce beautifully, but honestly, any favorite pasta will shine with this recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—just choose your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt to different dietary needs.

Is there a vegetarian option?

While Italian sausage is the star, you could substitute crumbled plant-based sausage or skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms for a savory, satisfying vegetarian take.

How can I add extra vegetables?

Additions like baby spinach, roasted red peppers, or even broccoli florets work beautifully. Toss them in with the peas to create your own version of the Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe packed with even more color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for your new go-to comfort meal, this Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. Packed with flavor, ready in a flash, and loved by kids and adults alike, it truly delivers on every level—give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!

Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Sausage and Pea Pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Tender pasta is tossed with savory Italian sausage, sweet peas, and a luscious cream sauce, then finished with Parmesan and fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)

Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water.
Sauté Sausage: Brown sausage in olive oil, add garlic and red pepper flakes.
Add Peas and Cream: Stir in peas, then add cream and heat through.
Combine: Toss drained pasta in skillet, mix in Parmesan and adjust consistency with pasta water.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Try using spicy sausage or substitute with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Enhance with a squeeze of lemon juice or extra Parmesan for added flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American