Spicy Sausage Rotini

If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, comforting, and full of flavor, then Spicy Sausage Rotini is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. This dish combines juicy sausage, tender rotini pasta, and a zesty, creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice. Imagine taking that first bite—the heat from the sausage, the richness of the sauce, and the satisfying bite of the pasta. It’s one of those meals that feels both indulgent and comforting, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Whether you’re feeding the family or having friends over for dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone. And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious. Trust me, this is one meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Sausage Rotini

Flavor-Packed: The combination of spicy sausage, creamy sauce, and rotini pasta makes every bite flavorful and satisfying.

Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, yet delicious.

Customizable Heat: Want it spicier? Add more heat with extra chili flakes or hot sauce. Prefer it milder? Adjust the spice level to your taste.

Comfort Food: This is the kind of dish that gives you that cozy feeling—a hearty meal that satisfies your cravings.

One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Less mess, more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients

For the Spicy Sausage Rotini:

• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage – The star of the show! Spicy Italian sausage adds loads of flavor and the perfect amount of heat. You can use sweet sausage if you prefer a milder version.
• 12 oz rotini pasta – Rotini’s spiral shape is perfect for trapping that creamy, spicy sauce.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing the sausage and building flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for that savory base flavor.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – For a bit of acidity and to balance out the richness of the sausage and sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – This creates the creamy texture of the sauce that balances the spiciness.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds some liquid to the sauce and helps thin it out for the right consistency.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – If you like heat, add more to really amp up the spice level.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a touch of nuttiness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – For a fresh garnish and extra flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

2. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown it until fully cooked through and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). Remove any excess grease if needed.

3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

4. Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their flavor into the sauce.

5. Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the sausage and sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

7. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring to melt it into the sauce. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy while it’s hot!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 550
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 20%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 20%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Sausage Rotini

This dish is delicious all on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, try pairing it with:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side of garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to add some extra color and nutrients to the meal.

Additional Tips

• Adjusting Spice Level: If you want to make the dish milder, opt for sweet Italian sausage and reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Make it Lighter: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option if you’re looking for a lower-fat version.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to sneak in more veggies and add even more flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to swap the rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?
A2: Yes, ground turkey or chicken would work as a leaner alternative. However, you may need to adjust the seasoning since sausage adds a lot of flavor on its own.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sausage sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Q4: Can I freeze Spicy Sausage Rotini?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or on the stove when ready to serve.

Q5: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A5: Yes! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or other protein options like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Q6: How can I make the dish creamier?
A6: If you want a creamier texture, simply add a little more heavy cream or even some cream cheese to the sauce.

Q7: What can I serve with this dish?
A7: Garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables are perfect companions to Spicy Sausage Rotini.

Q8: Is this recipe spicy?
A8: Yes, it has a kick from the spicy sausage and red pepper flakes. You can adjust the level of spice by adding more or less of both.

Q9: How long will leftovers keep?
A9: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q10: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A10: Yes, you can use other types of sausage, such as turkey sausage or sweet Italian sausage, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Spicy Sausage Rotini is the perfect combination of bold, comforting flavors and a quick, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please. The creamy, spicy sauce, paired with the hearty sausage and tender rotini pasta, is a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re feeding the family or having a cozy dinner for one, this dish is sure to satisfy all your cravings. So, grab that sausage, fire up your skillet, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s ready in no time!

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