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After a long day filled with the usual rush, the comforting sound of pasta boiling always beckons me to the kitchen. There’s something so heartwarming about creating a dish that not only delights the palate but also warms the soul. This Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage is my go-to recipe for those evenings when I crave a burst of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Picture this: tender pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, accented by the smoky depth of Andouille sausage and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Every bite is a delightful play of textures and tastes, making it an instant crowd-pleaser, whether I’m feeding family or hosting friends. Even better, this dish comes together in a matter of minutes, providing a swift escape from the monotony of fast food and the stress of meal planning.

So, grab your skillet, and let’s create a comforting plate of pasta that resonates with homemade warmth and culinary joy!

Why is Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage irresistible?

Simplicity makes it a favorite, with minimal prep and just one skillet needed for cooking. Bold flavors emerge from the combination of Andouille sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce—truly a burst of taste in every mouthful. Family-friendly and versatile, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Plus, time-saving and quick to prepare, this dish will swiftly shatter the monotony of takeout nights. You’ll enjoy the crowd appeal, as it’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates!

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage Ingredients

For the Pasta
• 12 ounces pasta – Cooked to al dente for the perfect chew, and don’t forget to reserve that cooking liquid!

For the Sausage
• 2 links Andouille or smoked sausage – Adds a smoky, spicy depth to the dish, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.

For the Sauce
• 1 tablespoon oil – Use olive oil for an extra touch of flavor while sautéing.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Provides richness and enhances the creamy sauce.
• 1 shallot – Finely chopped, it adds a sweet and mild flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced for a fragrant punch that infuses your sauce with warmth.
• 1 tablespoon flour – Helps to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings nicely to the pasta.
• 3/4 cup chicken broth – A great base for your sauce, adding savory notes to the mix.
• 2/3 cup heavy cream – Creates that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese – Grated to add a salty, nutty flavor that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil – Drained well, they offer a tangy sweetness that elevates your pasta with sun-dried tomato sauce and sausage.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Gives a subtle earthy flavor that complements the richness of the cream.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For those who like a hint of heat to brighten up the dish.
• Salt – Adjust to taste, as everyone’s preference for seasoning varies!

How to Make Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage

Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch slices. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
Add the butter to the same pan. Cook the garlic and shallot in the melted butter for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to create a roux that thickens the sauce beautifully.
Whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Add the Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted into the sauce.
Season the sauce to taste with salt, adjusting according to your preference.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, add the reserved pasta liquid a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.

Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage promptly for the best flavor; leftovers should be stored within 2 hours of cooking.
Fridge: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in sealed, freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding extra liquid as needed while gently stirring to ensure the pasta stays moist and delicious.

What to Serve with Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage?

Elevate your dining experience with complementary dishes that enhance the flavors and textures of your pasta delight.

Garlic Bread: The warm, toasty bread infused with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite delectable.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. It’s an easy way to add freshness to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a colorful, nutritious side that pairs well with the rich sausage flavor.
Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio or a robust Chianti works beautifully, enhancing the wine notes in your meal while balancing the creamy sauce.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and citrusy lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a refreshing finish after the hearty pasta.
Grated Parmesan: Offering extra cheese at the table never hurts! It allows loved ones to customize their meal and adds a creamy richness to every bite.

Together, these pairings create a symphony of flavors that turn a simple meal into a true feast!

Tips for the Best Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality Andouille sausage and fresh sun-dried tomatoes for a more flavorful dish. Fresh ingredients elevate your pasta with sun-dried tomato sauce and sausage.
Al Dente Pasta: Cook your pasta just to al dente; this ensures it maintains texture and doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
Reserved Pasta Liquid: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking liquid! It’s a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it thickens too much.
Balance Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding salt; the Parmesan cheese and sausage have their own salt content, which can easily over-season the dish.
Herb Freshness: For a vibrant touch, consider using fresh thyme instead of dried. It brightens the flavors dramatically!
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crusty bread or a light salad to round out the meal and enhance the overall dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage make-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce (without the pasta) up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For best quality, store the sausage separately to prevent it from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat until warmed through, then toss in freshly cooked pasta (reserve that al dente cooking liquid) for the perfect finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort, just as if it were freshly made!

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish your own!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat, perfect for those who crave a little more spice in every bite.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap Andouille sausage for plant-based sausage to keep the iconic flavors while catering to a vegetarian audience.
Creamy Vegan: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich, dairy-free version that satisfies.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness that brightens every mouthful with aromatic herbal notes.
Sun-Dried Tomato Burst: Blend in some fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a juicy contrast that complements the sun-dried tomatoes wonderfully.
Nutty Addition: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts to add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving will brighten the flavors, making each bite pop with citrusy goodness.
Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added creaminess and tang that elevates the dish wonderfully.

Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! Look for sun-dried tomatoes that are plump, with a vibrant color, and without dark spots or signs of mold. If they’re in oil, ensure the oil is clear and not cloudy, which indicates freshness. For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality tomatoes—either packed in oil or rehydrated in warm water before using.

How should I store leftovers of Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage?
To keep your delicious pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure you refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking for safety. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage?
Very! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding little by little of broth or cream to keep it moist and delicious.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick when I’m making Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage?
If your sauce thickens too much, don’t worry! Simply reserve 1/3 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining the pasta. Add it gradually to the sauce while gently stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This method not only adjusts the thickness but also helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making this dish?
Definitely! This recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which could be an issue for those with lactose intolerance. You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or use a lactose-free cream alternative to make it suitable. Also, if you’re cooking for young kids or pets, you may want to reduce the red pepper flakes to taste, or even skip them altogether for a milder flavor.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce and Sausage is a great option for meal prep. It stores well, and by dividing it into individual portions, you can have easy, ready-to-eat meals for busy days. Just make sure to reheat it as described earlier, adding liquid as necessary to maintain that creamy texture.