Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe: Easy Dinner Idea

Growing up, my kitchen was always filled with the rich aromas of Italian cooking, thanks to my beloved aunt Maria. She had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into comforting meals that made everyone feel at home. One of her go-to dishes was a hearty pasta recipe that still warms my heart today: Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu. This dish is a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you. Trust me, once you try this Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe, you’ll be adding it to your weeknight dinner rotation!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe. Here are just a few:

1. Quick and Simple: With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and sweet tomatoes creates a ragu that’s bursting with flavor, making each bite utterly satisfying.
3. Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta. This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your soul.
4. Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any pantry.
5. Kid-Friendly: Kids love pasta, and the hearty sausage ragu will have them asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe:

• 12 ounces paccheri pasta (or any large pasta you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this scrumptious Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Heat a large saucepan of salted water till it boils. After it boils, add the paccheri pasta and cook it until al dente, following the directions on the package. Save a small amount of the pasta water and drain and keep aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

Add the olive oil to a big skillet and heat it to medium. Crumble the Italian sausage into the pan once it’s heated. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. As it cooks, be sure to split it up into small pieces.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet along with the cooked sausage. The onion should be transparent after three to four minutes of sautéing. After that, add the minced garlic and simmer, stirring, for another minute, or until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Ragu

Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and smashed tomatoes after that. After giving everything a good stir, simmer for ten minutes or so. To get the right consistency, thin down any excess sauce by adding a small amount of the pasta water that was set aside. To taste, add salt and pepper for seasoning.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked paccheri to the ragu, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu into bowls or plates using a spoon. If preferred, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Savor your food!

Helpful Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the ragu ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it before tossing it with the cooked pasta.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will cook a bit more when mixed with the ragu, aim for al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Easy Ingredient Replacements

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some easy substitutions:

• Pasta: Any large pasta, like rigatoni or jumbo shells, can be used instead of paccheri.
• Sausage: Ground turkey or chicken sausage works well as a lighter option.
• Canned Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can be used; just chop and cook them down until saucy.

Final Thoughts

This Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a busy night or a dish to impress friends, this recipe is sure to deliver. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions