Cheesy Italian Sausage Shells

This quick and easy pasta recipe features savory spicy Italian sausage crumbles and a rich tomato-based sauce with a creamy, cheesy finish. Ready in under 20 minutes, it is a guaranteed hit with your friends and loved ones. Follow this quick and easy recipe to make the ultimate delicious cheesy Italian Sausage Shells.

Why are Shells great for this recipe?

The firm texture of the shell pasta pairs well with the crumbled fatty spicy Italian sausage and cheesy sauce. Its hollow shape captures the sauce which makes every bite full of flavor.

Cheesy Italian Sausage Shells Ingredients

• Medium pasta shells
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar of pasta sauce: I used my favorite pasta sauce brand Rao’s marinara sauce.
• 1 tsp salt, adjust to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheesy Italian Sausage Shells Instruction

In a large pan over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until browned and fully cooked.

Transfer the sausage to a bowl lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.

In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

Pour in 1 jar of pasta sauce, then add salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Stir and let it simmer over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes.

Add the cooked pasta and sausage back into the pan, tossing to coat evenly.

Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, mixing well until the sauce is smooth and rich.

Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.

Serve hot and enjoy!

If you enjoyed this pasta recipe, you might also enjoy this Korean fusion Shrimp Gochujang pasta dish.