Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

Name: Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 450 g ground sausage; 1 shallot or small onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 30 ml olive oil; 15 oz (425 g) diced tomatoes, canned; 425 g dried pasta of choice; 13 g sugar; 2.5 ml salt, plus extra for pasta water; 30 ml balsamic vinegar; 5 ml fresh or dried oregano; 5 ml fresh or dried thyme; 0.5 g red pepper flakes (optional); 85 g goat cheese; Parmesan cheese, finely grated, for topping

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: August 15, 2025

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Introduction to Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

As a passionate home cook, I know how hectic life can get, especially for those of us juggling family, work, and social events. That’s why I’m excited to share my Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta! This creamy delight is not just delicious; it’s a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without sacrificing time. The vibrant flavors of sautéed sausage, parmesan, and tangy goat cheese create a comforting dish that satisfies both hunger and heart. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s sure to warm both your kitchen and your family’s hearts!

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

This Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta is perfect for anyone who craves comfort food without endless prep time. It’s quick to whip up, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. You’ll love the creamy texture, courtesy of goat cheese, paired with the savory flavors of sausage and herbs. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry!

Ingredients for Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients can feel like embarking on a little treasure hunt, and I promise you’ll find some delightful gems for this dish! Here’s what you need:

Ground sausage: This forms the hearty base of your sauce, bringing richness and flavor. Choose pork or turkey based on your preference.
Shallot or small onion: A hint of sweetness from shallots enhances the overall flavor, but an onion works just as well!
Garlic: No Italian dish is complete without garlic. It adds a fragrant touch that elevates the sauce.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for sautéing. It adds depth and marvelous flavor to the dish.
Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes make this sauce quick and easy. They’re juicy and full of flavor!
Dried pasta: Choose your favorite kind! From penne to spaghetti, this is versatile enough to suit any preference.
Sugar: Just a pinch balances out the acidity of the tomatoes, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Salt: A bit of salt enhances all the ingredients. Include extra for seasoning the pasta water.
Balsamic vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness that pairs so well with the sausage and tomatoes.
Oregano and thyme: Fresh or dried, these herbs bring that signature Italian flavor that makes this dish sing!
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but if you enjoy a kick, sprinkle some in for added heat.
Goat cheese: The star of the dish! Creamy and tangy, it turns the sauce into a luxurious delight.
Parmesan cheese: A finishing touch that adds salty richness as a topping—absolutely delicious!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can print the ingredient list. Happy cooking!

How to Make Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

Cooking this Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you on this culinary journey!

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by thinly slicing the shallot or onion and finely chopping the garlic cloves. Prepping your ingredients gives you everything needed right at your fingertips. Trust me, it makes cooking so much smoother!

Sauté the Vegetables

Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced shallot along with a bit of sugar and salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. This step brings out flavors that will form the base of your sauce!

Cook the Sausage

Now it’s time to add the ground sausage. Break it into small pieces and cook for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it evenly browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary—no one likes a greasy sauce!

Flavor the Sauce

Once the sausage is browned, stir in the chopped garlic, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and thyme. Cook for just 1 minute until those wonderful aromas fill the air. This is where the magic truly begins, infusing flavors that dance together beautifully!

Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir to combine everything, then cover the skillet. Let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to intensify and meld together—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your dried pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain when it’s ready, but don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water just in case!

Combine and Finish

Now for the grand finale! Stir the creamy goat cheese into the simmering sauce, along with red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Once creamy, toss in your cooked pasta and gently mix until everything is well-coated. Serve it up hot, with extra goat cheese and grated Parmesan sprinkled on top. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Tips for Success

Always taste your sauce as it cooks. Adjust seasoning if needed for a perfect balance.
If you want extra creaminess, reserve a bit of pasta water to add when mixing.
For a pop of freshness, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.
Don’t rush the simmering step; it truly helps develop rich flavors.
Make it your own! Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Equipment Needed

A large skillet: Use a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
A pot for boiling pasta: Any large pot works fine.
A wooden spoon: Great for stirring and breaking up sausage.
A cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
A colander: Perfect for draining pasta once it’s cooked.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Replace the sausage with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
Adding veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the sautéing process for extra nutrition and color.
Whole wheat pasta: Pot for whole wheat pasta to boost fiber content and make it a bit healthier.
Different cheeses: Experiment with cream cheese or ricotta as a substitute for goat cheese for a different creamy flavor.
Herb variations: Try adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topped with fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
Crusty garlic bread makes for a perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce!

FAQs about Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta

Can I make Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and simply reheat while you cook your pasta. This saves you time during busy weeknights.

What if I don’t have goat cheese?
No problem at all! You can substitute with cream cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture. Just adjust the quantity to taste.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! This Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Is this pasta recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta! Many varieties are available, and they will work beautifully with the sauce while keeping the dish gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to include spinach, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes. The more colorful it is, the more inviting it becomes!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about the warmth a homemade meal brings, and my Tomato Sausage Goat Cheese Pasta is no exception. This dish embraces both comfort and creativity, effortlessly transforming a busy weeknight into a special occasion. The creamy goat cheese melds with the hearty sausage, creating a symphony of flavors that your family will crave again and again. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it a joy to whip up even on your busiest days. So, discover the happiness in each bite, and enjoy creating beautiful memories around your dinner table!