Name: Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pappardelle noodles; 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, bulk; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, julienned; Olive oil as needed; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 90 reviews

If you crave a rich, hearty pasta dish bursting with flavors, then you are in for a treat with the Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe. This dish brings together tender ribbons of pappardelle pasta, perfectly cooked spicy Italian sausage, and a luscious tomato sauce that carries just the right amount of heat and freshness from basil. Every bite is a delightful harmony of spice, herbaceousness, and comfort that feels like a warm hug from a dear friend on a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a cooking pan with sliced orange, yellow, and red bell peppers and chopped white onions cooking in a bubbling brown sauce. The vegetables are mixed together, glistening with the sauce, which has small black specks, likely pepper or seasoning. A wooden slotted spatula is resting diagonally on the right side of the pan, partially submerged in the sauce and vegetables. The texture appears soft but still holds the shape of the sliced peppers and onion pieces. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that truly shine when combined. Each element is essential, bringing unique textures and flavors to the table — from the spicy kick of the sausage to the sweetness of bell peppers, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the rich undertones of simmered tomatoes.

8 oz pappardelle noodles: Broad, flat pasta perfect for soaking up the chunky sauce.
1 lb spicy Italian sausage bulk: Adds a bold, savory, and spicy punch to the dish.
1 large onion, thinly sliced: Brings sweetness and depth after caramelizing.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend that enhances the overall flavor with fragrant herbs.
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a vibrant color and mild sweetness.
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced: Balances the palette with its light, crisp flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a punch of aromatic freshness.
1/2 cup white wine: Helps deglaze and add a subtle acidity to the sauce.
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes: The luscious base for the sauce, rich and comforting.
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes: Enhances the spiciness just enough without overpowering.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly peppery flavor to brighten the dish.
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, julienned: Adds a sweet, herbal aroma that elevates the tomato sauce.
Olive oil as needed: Essential for sautéing and finishing the sauce with a silky touch.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: The final seasoning essentials for balance and depth.

How to Make Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is critical here—it seasons the noodles from the inside as they cook. Once boiling, add your pappardelle noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This broad pasta shape will hug the sauce beautifully, absorbing all that fantastic flavor. Drain and set the pasta aside, ready for its saucy partner.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Add your spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks so you get delightful, bite-sized pieces. Brown the sausage well—it creates tasty caramelized bits that add richness. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate but keep that delicious fat in your pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Seasoning

In the same pan, toss in your thinly sliced onions. Cook them gently for about five minutes until they soften and take on a golden color. This slow cooking transforms their sharpness into a subtle sweetness that underlies the whole sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to layer in those warm herbaceous notes.

Step 4: Cook the Bell Peppers and Garlic

Follow with the beautiful slices of red and yellow bell peppers. These vegetables add vibrant colors and a slight crunch that contrasts with the tender pasta. Cook them for about two minutes to soften but keep their freshness. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more—enough to wake up its flavor without turning bitter.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

This is where you add a little magic—pour in half a cup of white wine to the pan and let it simmer. This step lifts all those caramelized bits stuck to the bottom, incorporating intense flavor and a subtle sweetness that complements the sausage and vegetables beautifully. Let the wine reduce for around two minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine with Tomatoes and Sausage

Stir in your crushed tomatoes along with the cooked sausage pieces. Adding the sausage back to the pan allows all those savory juices to mingle with the tomatoes. Let everything simmer together for about three minutes to marry the flavors expertly—it’s the heart of your Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

To finish, drizzle in a couple of tablespoons of olive oil—it adds a luscious sheen and smooth mouthfeel. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or a pinch more chili flakes if you want extra heat. Finally, stir in the fresh basil and parsley, which bring a refreshing herbal brightness that balances the richness.

Step 8: Combine and Serve

Now, toss the cooked pappardelle noodles into your flavorful sauce, ensuring each ribbon is generously coated. This is the moment when all your hard work comes together: spicy, saucy, aromatic, and utterly irresistible. Serve immediately while it’s hot and fresh for the best experience.

How to Serve Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe

A close-up view of wide, pale yellow flat pasta noodles layered evenly in a black pan with a mix of light brown cooked ground meat scattered throughout. Bright orange and red thin bell pepper strips add color on top of and around the pasta. Small pieces of red diced tomatoes and bits of green herbs are spread evenly over the dish, adding more texture and detail. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with a beige spoon and some green herbs visible near the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over each plate. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brightens the flavors, and a few fresh basil leaves on top add a fragrant, eye-catching element. These simple touches elevate your dish from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or focaccia is another brilliant side, perfect for sopping up leftover sauce. If you want to keep things light, consider roasted vegetables or a simple sauté of green beans.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more rustic, family-style presentation, serve the pasta straight from the large skillet or a beautiful serving bowl. If you’re aiming for a dinner party vibe, twirl portions neatly on each plate and garnish with finely chopped herbs or edible flowers. Individual mugs of herb-infused olive oil on the side let guests customize their flavor punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta dish, but for best texture, freeze the sauce and pasta separately if possible. Store sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to eat, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Reheating

Reheat your refrigerated or thawed Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to heat evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pappardelle is ideal due to its wide surface that holds the sauce well, feel free to use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the spicy Italian sausage and a pinch of red chili flakes. If you prefer less spice, choose mild sausage or reduce the chili flakes to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Just season them well to keep the bold flavors alive.

What kind of white wine should I use for cooking?

Opt for a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the intended flavor profile of the sauce.

Is it better to use fresh or canned tomatoes for this sauce?

For this recipe, crushed canned tomatoes provide a consistently rich and smooth base, ideal for that hearty sauce. However, if you have very ripe fresh tomatoes, you can blanch, peel, and crush them yourself for a fresher taste.

Final Thoughts

The Italian Spicy Sausage Pappardelle with Tomato and Basil Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without fuss, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your new go-to pasta that brings warmth and spice to your dinner table.