Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a truly comforting, flavorful dish that comes together quickly and pleases every palate at the table, the Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. This pasta is the perfect harmony of savory Italian sausage, sweet pops of tender peas, and a luscious creamy tomato sauce all tossed with delightfully chewy orecchiette (or your favorite short pasta). It’s a weeknight winner that feels special without any fuss, making it irresistible for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor and texture. From the sweetness of the peas to the richness of the sausage, and the bright tang of the tomatoes, every component helps elevate this dish beautifully.

• 1 pound dry orecchiette pasta: Chosen for its perfect little cup shape that catches the sauce amazingly well.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth base to sauté the sausage and onions while infusing richness.
• 1 small sweet onion, finely diced: Contributes a gentle sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic flavor that subtly lingers without overpowering.
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage links, casings removed: The star protein delivering robust flavor with a hint of spice.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note typical of Italian cooking.
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds just a whisper of heat to keep the dish lively.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance flavors.
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides a fresh, slightly acidic base for the sauce.
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Helps create a silky sauce while enhancing savory depth.
• ¾ cup frozen sweet baby peas, thawed: Offers tender bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• ⅓ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: The final cheesy finish that adds a touch of salty tanginess.

How to Make Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Al dente pasta provides the perfect bite and better texture when combined with the hearty sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta but hold onto the pot for tossing later.

Step 2: Brown Sausage and Sauté Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced sweet onion and the sausage (with casings removed) to the pan. Break up the sausage gently with a wooden spoon, cooking until it is nicely browned with no pink spots remaining and the onions have softened, about 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 20 seconds is all you need. Drain off excess fat for a lighter sauce, then season with dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to infuse your dish with layers of classic Italian flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Add the entire can of diced tomatoes, including their juices, and pour in the chicken broth. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes. This resting time thickens the sauce and helps all those flavors marry into something truly irresistible.

Step 4: Add Peas and Cream

Next, toss in the thawed sweet baby peas for a surprise pop of sweetness and color. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend everything together, and warm through. The cream transforms the sauce into a silky, comforting coating that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the drained pasta to the pot, then pour in the sausage and pea mixture. Stir everything thoroughly so every bite is full of the rich sauce and savory sausage. Serve this dish hot with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to finish it off with a perfect salty tang.

How to Serve Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling some extra Parmesan cheese is a must because it adds that wonderful sharpness. If you want a touch of freshness, chopped parsley or basil leaves on top provide a lovely herbaceous contrast. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil at the end can also elevate the dish to restaurant-quality.

Side Dishes

Because this pasta is so comforting and rich, pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli can round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion or a cozy dinner, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls, allowing room for the creamy sauce to shine. You can also layer it in glass casserole dishes and offer toppings like extra cheese or toasted breadcrumbs for guests to add. This dish even reheats well, so serving it buffet-style and letting everyone help themselves is a fun idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Saving the dish this way allows the flavors to deepen even more, making for an equally satisfying second meal.

Freezing

While the pasta with cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed by placing the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 1 month. When freezing, it’s ideal to undercook the pasta slightly so it does not become mushy when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly without stirring as it can cause the cream sauce to separate. Stirring while warming ensures a creamy, smooth texture just like when it was freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While sweet Italian sausage is traditional and flavorful, you can swap in spicy Italian sausage for a kick or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

What pasta types work best with this recipe?

Orecchiette is ideal because its little shape holds the sauce nicely, but feel free to use other short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just choose a pasta that can stand up to a creamy meat sauce without getting lost.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can adapt it by replacing the sausage with hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives. Keep the remaining ingredients the same to maintain that wonderful creamy texture and sweet pea burst.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can cook the sausage and sauce components in advance and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss together. This keeps your pasta from getting mushy and makes hosting easier.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

To avoid curdling, add the cream last and warm it gently without boiling. Stir frequently and keep the heat at low to medium. Gradual warming helps maintain a smooth, silky sauce perfect for coating your pasta.

Final Thoughts

The Sausage and Pea Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, comforting, and packed with fresh, balanced flavors. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for entertaining, and once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds every time. Don’t hesitate to try it and share this family favorite with those you love!