If you're searching for a cozy, hearty meal that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, look no further than this delightful Penne with Cabbage, Sausage, and Marinara Sauce! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's not only satisfying but also packed with vibrant ingredients and robust flavors. Imagine the savory aroma of Italian sausage mingling with tender cabbage and a rich marinara sauce, all enveloping perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of penne pasta, 1/2 head of green cabbage (chopped), 1 lb of Italian sausage (removed from casings), 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1/4 cup of olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, and fresh basil for garnish.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine the sausage and cabbage, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly. This should take about 5 minutes.
- After the cabbage has softened, pour in the marinara sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the penne pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sausage, cabbage, and marinara sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to help combine the sauce and pasta.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pasta to heat through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the penne hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your delicious Penne with Cabbage, Sausage, and Marinara Sauce!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your penne pasta is cooked al dente, follow the package instructions closely and taste a piece a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up.
- Sausage Secrets: For an extra flavor boost, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet while cooking the sausage.
- Cabbage Crunch: If you prefer a bit more texture, you can sauté the cabbage for a shorter time, allowing it to retain some crunch.
- Sauce Savvy: Don’t hesitate to customize your marinara sauce! Adding a splash of red wine or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor profile.
- Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta cooking water is a fantastic way to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Add it gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Garnish for Glory: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor. Consider using other herbs like parsley or oregano for a different twist.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks. Just be sure to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture.Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite of this delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
