Mediterranean Sausage Pasta
Mediterranean Sausage Pasta is a hearty, colorful dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Juicy sausage, tender pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs come together in a silky, garlicky sauce that feels both comforting and restaurant-worthy. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, this meal balances richness with bright Mediterranean touches like olives, lemon, and olive oil for a satisfying, well-rounded bite every time.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
12 oz Italian sausage, casing removed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it browns.
Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, oregano, and red pepper flakes, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan and concentrate the flavors.
Stir in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and mix until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Tips
Choose good-quality sausage for deeper, richer flavor.
Salt your pasta water generously to enhance the pasta itself.
Reserve extra pasta water to adjust sauce texture later.
Let the sausage brown well for better flavor development.
Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for softer texture and richer taste.
Add garlic after onions soften to avoid burning.
Simmer, not boil, the cream to prevent splitting.
Toss pasta in the sauce over low heat for better absorption.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting.
Finish with fresh herbs for a brighter, fresher taste.
Variations
Use spicy sausage for extra heat.
Swap cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Stir in artichoke hearts for a classic Mediterranean twist.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
Replace chicken broth with white wine for a deeper flavor.
Add roasted red peppers for sweetness and color.
Try feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy finish.
Mix in mushrooms for earthy depth.
Use shrimp instead of sausage for a seafood version.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well with a splash of cream or broth.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, though cream sauces may slightly change texture when reheated.
What pasta shape works best?
Short, ridged shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Is this dish spicy?
It is mild, but red pepper flakes can increase heat easily.
Can I use turkey sausage?
Yes, it works well for a lighter version.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low after adding cream and stir frequently.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli all work well.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
What can I serve with this?
A simple green salad and crusty bread pair nicely.
Nutrition
(per serving, approximate)
Calories: 560 kcal
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 32 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sausage Pasta is a reliable, comforting meal that delivers bold flavor without being complicated. With its creamy sauce, savory sausage, and bright Mediterranean accents, it is a dish that works just as well for casual family dinners as it does for entertaining guests. It is easy to customize, quick to make, and guaranteed to become a regular favorite at your table.