Sausage, Leek & Fennel Pasta is a deliciously savory dish that combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage with the subtle sweetness of leeks and the aromatic notes of fennel. This pasta dish offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, creating a comforting meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. The richness of the sausage is balanced by the freshness of the fennel and the delicate leeks, while a splash of white wine adds a sophisticated depth to the sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks and fennel. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Skillet:
- Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for about 2 minutes until the wine is reduced by half.
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your Sausage, Leek & Fennel Pasta, a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Italy to your table!
