Ziti Cucina Recipe

Cook pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook until just al dente (about 10-11 minutes or according to package directions). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Cook sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Crumble the removed-casing Italian sausage into the hot pan and brown, breaking into bite-sized pieces, about 6-8 minutes. Cook until no pink remains and edges are nicely browned. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and leave rendered fat in the pan (discard excess fat if more than 1 tablespoon).

Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter to the same skillet. When butter is melted, add the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and sauté 30-45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook 1-2 minutes to deepen flavor. Add the crushed tomatoes, drained sliced sun-dried tomatoes, and 1/2 cup broth. Stir to combine, scrape up any browned bits from the pan, and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer uncovered 6-8 minutes to thicken slightly.

Lower heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly pinkish-orange. Return the browned sausage to the pan and simmer gently 3-4 minutes to marry flavors.

Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and incorporated. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach a silky, coating consistency (you may not need the full cup). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, taste and adjust. Fold in the sliced fresh basil.

Add the drained al dente penne to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat, heating together for 1-2 minutes so the pasta finishes cooking and absorbs sauce. If serving family-style or plating, transfer to a warmed serving dish or individual plates.

Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley over each portion. Offer extra crushed red pepper at the table for those who want more heat. Serve immediately.