Creamy Tomato Sausage Pasta Recipe

This creamy tomato sausage pasta is comfort food at its simplest. Savory Italian sausage pairs perfectly with a tangy tomato sauce, and a splash of heavy cream transforms it into a rich, creamy dish. Quick to make but packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Try out this creamy tomato sausage pasta the next time you are craving a flavorful pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage Tomato Pasta

• Rich and Flavorful – The combination of Italian sausage and tomato paste creates a savory base.
• Quick and Easy – From start to finish, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Perfect Pasta Pairing – Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds onto the sauce well.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prep parts of this recipe in advance or enjoy leftovers.

Ingredients

• ~1 lb Italian sausage
  • The savory protein in this recipe
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Adds aromatic flavor
• 12 oz pasta
  • Use rigatoni or penne because the sauce clings to the ridges well
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • The main base of the sauce
• ½ tsp salt
  • Helps bring out the natural flavors of the tomato sauce
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Blend of herbs that complements the sauce
• ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Adds slight heat
• ½ cup heavy cream
  • Adds creaminess to the sauce
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Helps loosen the sauce
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Adds a salty and nutty finish

Click on the images for the direct link to the ingredients/tools I used:

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Push the sausage to one side of the pan and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to darken slightly to develop deeper flavor.

Pour in the tomato sauce and add the salt, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine.

Add the heavy cream and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with ½ cup reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.

Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Creamy Tomato Sausage Pasta Recipe Tips

Do not skip cooking the tomato paste for a couple minutes. This step creates a more rich and concentrated flavor.

Before draining the pasta, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. Set aside if you want to loosen the sauce.

Storage Tips

Let the pasta cool completely then store leftover creamy tomato sausage pasta in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

You can freeze the pasta in a freezer safe container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reduce the heat before adding in cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

Italian sausage –> Ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken

Heavy cream –> Milk, half & half

Parmesan cheese –> Pecorino Romano

If you enjoyed this creamy tomato sausage pasta recipe, you might also like my creamy shrimp pasta recipe

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