Cheesy Sausage and Shells is a comforting dish that brings together rich and creamy flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines pasta with savory Italian sausage and melty cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish stands out for its ease of preparation and mouthwatering taste. With minimal cooking steps, you can whip up a satisfying meal that pleases both kids and adults. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be tailored with different ingredients based on what you have on hand.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage and Shells
Preparing Cheesy Sausage and Shells is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the diced tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked shells to the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage and Shells
Serve Cheesy Sausage and Shells hot from the skillet. You can pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a nice touch of flavor and color.
How to Store Cheesy Sausage and Shells
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish can be kept for up to 3 days in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Cheesy Sausage and Shells
- Use a mix of different cheeses for added flavor.
- For a bit of spice, consider using hot Italian sausage.
- If you like vegetables, toss in some spinach or bell peppers when cooking the sausage.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken. Another variation is to use different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, if you don’t have shells on hand.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the sausage and sauce ahead of time, then combine with the pasta just before serving.
What can I serve with Cheesy Sausage and Shells?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze the dish, the pasta may become softer after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month if necessary.
Cheesy Sausage and Shells
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz shell pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the diced tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked shells to the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.