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If you love the classic flavors of a Caprese salad but want something heartier, this Caprese Pasta with Italian Sausage is the perfect dish.
Juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and savory Italian sausage come together in a mouthwatering pasta dish that is both easy and satisfying.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Recipe
This recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and savory flavors, making it a favorite for pasta lovers. Here’s why you will love it:
- It combines classic Caprese salad flavors with a hearty pasta dish.
- It is quick and easy, ready in 30 minutes.
- It uses simple, fresh ingredients that bring out the best flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best for soaking up the sauce.
- Italian sausage: Sweet or spicy, depending on your preference.
- Cherry tomatoes: Provide a fresh, juicy burst of flavor.
- Garlic & onions: Enhance the depth of the sauce.
- Mozzarella pearls: Creamy and melty, adding the signature Caprese touch.
- Fresh basil: Brings a pop of color and freshness.
- Olive oil & balsamic glaze: For authentic Italian flavors.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the Italian Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage (remove casing if needed) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics and Tomatoes
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir and cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine with Pasta and Sausage
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together.
- Add the drained pasta and mix well. If it looks dry, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Add Mozzarella and Basil
- Remove from heat and gently stir in mozzarella pearls and fresh basil. The heat will slightly melt the cheese, making it creamy.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze and Serve
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Caprese Pasta with Sausage
- Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Let the mozzarella soften naturally by mixing it in just before serving.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water to make the sauce extra silky.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil and parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different preferences:
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the sausage for mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
- Use different cheese: Try burrata or ricotta for a creamy twist.
- Try different pasta: Gluten-free or whole wheat options work great.
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
What to Serve with Caprese Pasta
This pasta dish pairs well with simple sides:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Side salad: A fresh arugula or Caesar salad complements the dish.
- Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti enhances the flavors.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage. Simply slice it and add it in step 4 when combining with pasta.
Can I freeze Caprese Pasta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the mozzarella for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and add fresh cheese when reheating.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage with mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or plant-based sausage.
Caprese Pasta with Italian Sausage (30-Minutes)
This Caprese Pasta with Italian Sausage is a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal that brings together fresh Caprese flavors with hearty pasta. Juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and savory sausage make every bite packed with flavor.Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- 8 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or fusilli
- 1 lb Italian sausage sweet or spicy
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Cook the Pasta
-
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
-
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Cook the Italian Sausage
-
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Add the Italian sausage (remove casing if needed) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
-
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics and Tomatoes
-
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
-
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Add cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir and cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices (about 5 minutes).
Combine with Pasta and Sausage
-
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together.
-
Add the drained pasta and mix well. If it looks dry, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
