Spiced Pork Penne with Tomato Ragu and Parmesan

This spiced pork penne brings together savory sausage, earthy mushrooms and a hint of chili for a comforting weeknight meal. The tomato ragu coats every piece of al dente pasta, while fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch.

Top with grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty finish. It’s a satisfying dish that feels both rustic and refined, perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

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Ingredients

1 lb sweet Italian sausageView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

8 oz fresh mushrooms, slicedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 red onion, dicedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 red chili, mincedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 sprigs fresh thymeView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 lb penne pastaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Grated Parmesan cheese for servingView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Salt and pepper to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tbsp olive oilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and red onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add red chili and thyme sprigs; cook 1 minute more.
4. Return sausage to skillet. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add drained penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Serve in bowls topped with grated Parmesan.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use ground pork instead of sausage?

Yes, but season it with fennel seeds, garlic powder and red pepper flakes to mimic Italian sausage flavor.

What can I substitute for fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works; use 1 teaspoon. Add it with the tomatoes.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure the sausage is gluten-free.