Italian Sausage Pasta: A Hearty Roman Ragu
Italian Sausage Pasta is a traditional Italian dish from
Lazio, the region surrounding Rome. Crafted with rich Italian sausage, creamy mascarpone, earthy walnuts, and vibrant tomatoes, this recipe delivers
comforting warmth and authentic flavor.
Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s the pinnacle of lunch/dinner elegance.
The Story Behind Italian Sausage and Walnut Pasta
How to Make Italian Sausage and Walnut Pasta
Follow our traditional Roman technique for perfect results
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Colavita Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, removed from casing
- 2 whole cloves garlic, gently crushed with the side of a knife
- 1½ cups Colavita canned crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste, plus plenty of salt for the pasta water
- ½ lb Colavita short shaped pasta (suggested: Mezze Rigatoni)
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup walnuts, finely chopped
The Preparation
- Begin by heating the Colavita Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until beautifully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, leaving just enough to coat the pan.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the gently crushed garlic cloves to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma without browning.
- Pour in the Colavita canned crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients, season with salt and pepper to taste, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Colavita short shaped pasta and cook according to package directions until it is perfectly al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the simmering sausage and tomato sauce. Add the mascarpone cheese and the finely chopped walnuts. Stir vigorously, adding a splash or two of the reserved pasta water as needed, until the mascarpone has melted into a creamy, luscious sauce that evenly coats the pasta.
- Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. This rich and comforting dish is best enjoyed hot, savoring every flavorful bite.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly al dente—still firm to the bite. This provides a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce and allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors without becoming mushy.
For an extra layer of authentic Italian aroma, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle warmth, or finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley just before serving.
To preserve this dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and gently warm on the stovetop.
Kcal
Wellness Note
This Italian Sausage and Walnut Pasta, when enjoyed in moderation, aligns beautifully with the Mediterranean diet’s principles. Rich in monounsaturated fats from Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil and omega-3s from walnuts, it supports heart health. The lean protein from Italian sausage provides satiety and muscle support, while the complex carbohydrates from pasta offer sustained energy. It’s a balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe authentic?
Absolutely. While variations exist across Italy, this recipe captures the essence of a hearty, traditional Roman-style pasta dish. It uses classic Italian ingredients and a preparation method passed down through generations, ensuring an authentic taste experience.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prepare the sausage and tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, we recommend cooking the pasta and combining it with the sauce, mascarpone, and walnuts just before serving.
Is it healthy?
Yes, this dish offers a wonderful balance of nutrients. It provides healthy fats, quality protein, and complex carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling and energy-boosting meal. When mindful of portion sizes, it fits well into a healthy, balanced diet, especially for those embracing Mediterranean eating habits.
