Pappardelle with Italian Sausage: A Hearty and Flavorful Pasta Dish
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful pasta dish, Pappardelle with Italian Sausage is a perfect choice. This traditional Italian recipe combines wide, ribbon-like pappardelle pasta with savory, seasoned Italian sausage in a rich tomato-based sauce. The dish is rustic, satisfying, and ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions.
The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs makes this dish irresistible. The rich, meaty flavor pairs beautifully with the wide pappardelle noodles, which are designed to hold onto the sauce. If you’re interested in exploring variations of this classic dish, you can check out Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Pappardelle for a slightly different take on the recipe.
Why Pappardelle with Italian Sausage is a Must-Try Dish
This classic Italian dish has several key qualities that make it a favorite:
- Rich and Savory Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that’s both rich and comforting.
- Perfect Pasta Pairing: The wide, flat ribbons of pappardelle are ideal for soaking up thick, hearty sauces, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Easy to Customize: You can tailor this recipe to your taste, swapping out ingredients or adding extras like mushrooms or spinach. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this Classic Sausage and Pappardelle Recipe for more tips.
Key Ingredients for Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
To create a delicious Pappardelle with Italian Sausage, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:
- Pappardelle Pasta: These wide ribbons are perfect for holding onto the sauce.
- Italian Sausage: Choose between sweet or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your flavor preference.
- Tomatoes: Use canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a rich base.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavorful foundation of the sauce.
- Wine: A splash of white or red wine adds depth to the sauce. You can also substitute with chicken broth if you prefer.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, and parsley bring an authentic Italian flavor to the dish.
- Grated Parmesan: Top the dish with Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
Follow these steps to make a mouth-watering Pappardelle with Italian Sausage:
Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water.
Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened and fragrant. Pour in the white or red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the crushed tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and fresh oregano. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the browned sausage back into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Toss the cooked pappardelle into the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Top the dish with freshly chopped basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Variations for Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
This versatile dish can be easily customized to suit your taste. Here are a few popular variations:
- Spicy Italian Sausage Pappardelle
- Use spicy Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- Creamy Pappardelle with Sausage
- Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce at the end of cooking for a creamy twist.
- Vegetarian Pappardelle
- Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or eggplant to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the dish.
- Pappardelle with White Wine Sauce
- Skip the tomatoes and create a lighter sauce with white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs. Toss with sausage and serve.
Serving Suggestions for Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
To complete the meal, here are a few side dishes and serving ideas:
- Arugula Salad: Serve with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Pair the pasta with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the savory flavors of the dish.
Tips for Perfecting Pappardelle with Italian Sausage
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pappardelle to al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano add bright, authentic flavors to the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Wine: Adding a splash of wine helps to deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water to thin out the sauce if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, while pappardelle is ideal, other wide pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle will also work.
2. What kind of wine should I use?
Both red and white wine work well. Chianti or Pinot Grigio are good options depending on your preference.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta just before serving.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pappardelle or another gluten-free pasta option.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Conclusion: A Hearty Italian Classic
Pappardelle with Italian Sausage is a flavorful, hearty pasta dish that brings together the rich taste of sausage with a robust tomato sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. For more variations and ideas on how to elevate this dish, check out The Pasta Project’s Pappardelle with Sausage.
With its balance of robust flavors and comforting textures, this dish is bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy!
