# 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 cloves garlic, 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 - Boil penne in a large pot of salted water until al dente following package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 4 minutes.
03 - Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Pour in crushed tomatoes, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 minutes.
05 - Lower heat to minimal. Stir in heavy cream, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes.
06 - Add drained penne to the sauce, mixing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency.
07 - Fold in grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
