Imagine a plate of paccheri dancing in a pool of rich, savory sausage ragu. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses with hints of garlic, herbs, and the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals. This isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a glorious embrace of flavors and textures that brings you right back to grandma’s kitchen or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Now, let’s be real. We’ve all had those days when we long for a delicious meal but lack the time or energy to whip up something extravagant. Enter Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu—a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also takes minimal effort. It’s the culinary equivalent of putting on your favorite sweatpants after a long day; it just feels right!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu recipe is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The flavor profile combines savory sausage with aromatic herbs for an irresistible taste.
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any table setting.
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish fits any occasion!
Ingredients for Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Paccheri Pasta: This large tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the rich ragu sauce.
Italian Sausage: Choose sweet or spicy depending on your preference; both work wonderfully in this recipe.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for adding depth and aroma to the ragu.
Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for a rich base; crush them while cooking for that homemade feel.
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil adds brightness and complements the savory sausage perfectly.
For the Sauce:
Onion: A finely chopped onion provides sweetness and richness to the sauce base.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated on top before serving, it adds creaminess and an extra flavor punch.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season wisely! Adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Paccheri
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your paccheri and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping a cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it into the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks—about five minutes will do.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with sausage. Stir occasionally until softened—about three minutes should suffice—allowing those delectable aromas to fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Pour in your canned tomatoes (crushing them gently with your hands if using whole ones). Stir everything together, then season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for about ten minutes so all those flavors can mingle beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta
Once your ragu is thickened slightly, add in the drained paccheri and toss it all together. If it’s looking too thick, gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Basil
Tear fresh basil leaves by hand (because tearing is way cooler than chopping) and sprinkle them over your dish just before serving. Finally, plate generously and shower with Parmesan cheese because life is too short for anything less!
Serve this delightful Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad for an effortless yet impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Now go ahead, dig in! Your taste buds are about to embark on an Italian adventure that will leave you grinning from ear to ear—and probably wanting seconds!
You Must Know
- This delicious Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu will make dinner feel like a five-star experience without the fuss.
- It’s a dish that bursts with flavor and showcases your culinary prowess while being simple enough for any weeknight meal.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in a pan; let those juices flow! While the sausage sizzles, boil your paccheri until al dente. Combine everything with your ragu, and voilà – you’re ready to impress!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or toss in some spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and warm on the stovetop.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu, always taste as you go to adjust seasonings.
- Make sure to cook pasta just until al dente; it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
- For a richer flavor, let the ragu simmer longer to deepen its taste.
Sometimes I whip up this Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu when friends come over. The look on their faces when they take that first bite is priceless—like I’ve just handed them the secret to happiness!
FAQs :
What is Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu?
Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu is a delightful Italian pasta dish that combines large tube-shaped pasta called paccheri with a flavorful sausage ragu. The ragu is typically made with ground sausage, tomatoes, herbs, and spices, creating a rich and hearty sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting meal ideal for any occasion.
How long does it take to make Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu?
Preparing Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You can cook the paccheri while simultaneously preparing the sausage ragu. This quick cooking time makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy individuals or families looking for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
While paccheri is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes if needed. Options like rigatoni or penne work well, as they can hold onto the rich sausage ragu sauce effectively. However, for the best experience, stick with paccheri if possible, as its unique shape enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
Is Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can make a larger batch of the ragu and store it separately from the cooked pasta. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked paccheri. This allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week without compromising on taste or quality.
Conclusion for Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu :
In summary, Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings Italian comfort food to your table in just 30 minutes. With its rich sausage ragu and unique paccheri pasta, this recipe is perfect for quick dinners or meal prep. Enjoy it as a family favorite or impress guests with its taste and presentation. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu
Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu is a hearty Italian dish that combines large tube-shaped pasta with a savory sausage ragu. Bursting with flavors from Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, you can enjoy a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in under half an hour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz paccheri pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the paccheri in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and crumble in the sausage. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in canned tomatoes (crushing them) and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the drained paccheri and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Finish with torn basil leaves and serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For a leaner dish, substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or toss in spinach for added nutrition.
