This creamy sausage pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With flavorful sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious sauce, it’s a perfect one-pot dish for busy days.
Who can resist a meal that cooks itself in the Instant Pot? I love how quick it is to make. Just toss everything in, and soon you’ll have dinner ready with minimal dishes to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Ground Italian sausage adds robust flavor. You can swap it for turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Personally, I love the spicy Italian sausage for that extra kick!
Pasta: Short pasta like penne works best, but you can also use rigatoni or fusilli. Make sure to adjust the cooking time if you choose a different shape – thicker pasta may need a minute or two longer.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or whole milk, but the cream gives it that rich, creamy texture. Almond milk or coconut cream can be good dairy-free alternatives if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. I usually sprinkle even more on top when serving for that cheesy touch!
How Do I Prevent Overcooked Pasta in the Instant Pot?
Getting the pasta just right in the Instant Pot can be a common concern. The key is to avoid overcooking due to the pressure and steam. Here’s how:
- Use the cooking time specific to your pasta shape (generally about half the time listed on the package). For penne, 5 minutes is perfect.
- Spread the pasta evenly in the broth without stirring. This helps to prevent clumping and ensures even cooking.
- Perform a quick pressure release immediately after cooking. This stops the cooking process and helps avoid mushy pasta!
Following these tips will make your dish heavenly and perfectly cooked every time!
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (casings removed for crumbled texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and just 5 minutes of cooking time in the Instant Pot. Make sure to allow a few minutes for the pressure to build and a quick release after cooking, for a total time of around 30 minutes from start to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and adding the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked. This step adds wonderful flavor.
2. Add the Aromatics:
If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain some off. Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Build the Dish:
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a spoon to get all those tasty browned bits. This prevents burning during pressure cooking. Now, add the uncooked pasta, spreading it out evenly but without stirring. Just press it down slightly so that it’s mostly covered by the broth.
4. Season and Pressure Cook:
Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), and a pinch of salt and black pepper over the pasta. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Release and Creamify:
When cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. It’s the moment where it all comes together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, taste your pasta and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Your creamy sausage pasta is ready to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds—easy, delicious, and made in no time!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds great flavor, you can use any ground sausage you prefer, including turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even vegetarian sausage for a plant-based meal.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the gluten-free pasta’s package instructions, as they may vary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the pasta gets too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Add in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini when you sauté the onions and garlic for a delicious vegetable boost. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pot to allow everything to cook evenly!
