If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, this easy sausage pasta recipe is your new go-to. Made with flavorful mild Italian sausage, rich Rao’s pasta sauce, and your favorite organic pasta, it’s a satisfying dinner option that feels gourmet with minimal effort. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad and warm sourdough garlic bread like we did, and you’ve got a complete meal that hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta
- Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work great)
- Salt (for pasta water)
- Olive oil (to enhance texture and prevent sticking)
For the Sausage
- 1 lb mild Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
For the Sauce
- 1 jar Rao’s pasta sauce (marinara or arrabbiata)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
Optional Sides
- Caesar salad (prepackaged or homemade)
- Sourdough garlic bread (store-bought or homemade)
Why This Recipe Works
Using quality ingredients like Rao’s sauce and organic pasta brings out rich flavors without needing complex techniques. Seasoning the sausage adds depth, while parmesan finishes the dish with a salty, umami bite. The whole recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals, casual entertaining, or even meal prep.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Gather and measure all your seasonings. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and bring a pot of salted water with a splash of olive oil to a boil.
2. Season and Cook the Sausage
In a heated skillet, add the mild Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle in garlic powder, parsley, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir until the sausage is browned and cooked through—about 7–10 minutes.
3. Boil the Pasta Perfectly
Once the water is boiling, add your organic pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
4. Combine Sauce, Sausage, and Pasta
Lower the heat and pour Rao’s pasta sauce into the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir in the drained pasta and reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Mix well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Plate and Garnish
Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of parsley or red chili flakes for color and a touch of heat.
Pro Tips for the Best Flavor
- Don’t skip seasoning your sausage—even mild varieties benefit from a flavor boost.
- Salting your pasta water is the first step to flavorful noodles.
- Reserve pasta water—it helps the sauce cling to the pasta and adds silkiness.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Short, ridged shapes like rigatoni or penne are ideal for catching sauce and sausage pieces. However, spaghetti or fettuccine will also work if that’s what you have on hand. Always go for organic or bronze-cut varieties for better texture and flavor absorption.
Why We Love Rao’s Sauce
Rao’s pasta sauce is a pantry staple for good reason. With its rich tomato base, olive oil, and simple spices, it tastes homemade without the hassle. It’s low in sugar and free of additives—just pure flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh vs Pre-Grated
Always go for a block of parmesan and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated parmesan enhances flavor and presentation.
Suggested Sides: Caesar Salad & Sourdough Garlic Bread
The creamy, tangy crunch of Caesar salad balances the richness of the sausage pasta. For garlic bread, slice sourdough, spread with garlic butter, and bake until golden. Together, they round out this comfort meal beautifully.
Make It Your Own
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Swap in spicy Italian sausage for more heat.
- Try turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between rounds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta—it should be slightly firm to the bite.
- Skipping pasta water—it helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Using too much seasoning—keep it balanced to let the sauce shine.
Easy, Quick & Delicious
This easy sausage pasta recipe is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With bold flavors, quality ingredients, and minimal effort, it’s the perfect weeknight staple. Pair it with Caesar salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got a dinner the whole family will love. Don’t forget to add your favorite wine or sparkling water for the full experience!
