Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta Recipe

This inviting dish of turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that will please any palate. The satisfying taste of turkey sausage combines perfectly with fresh basil and tomatoes, served atop a bed of whole wheat pasta.

While most ingredients in this recipe are quite common, the turkey sausage might need a special trip to the supermarket or butcher shop. It has a distinct flavor compared to other types of sausage and makes a healthier alternative. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture to the sauce and can be found in the dairy section.

Ingredients for Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

Italian turkey sausage: This is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, with a unique flavor.

Tomatoes: They form the base of the sauce, providing a fresh and tangy taste.

Fresh basil: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish.

Salt and Pepper: Enhances the flavor of the dish.

Ricotta: It provides a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.

Whole wheat pasta: A healthier alternative to regular pasta that adds a hearty taste to the dish.

One reader, Dean Tripp says:

This turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the turkey sausage adds a delicious twist. The combination of fresh basil and creamy ricotta takes it to the next level. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a hearty and wholesome meal.

Dean Tripp

Techniques Required

How to remove sausage casings: Gently squeeze the sausage out of the casing by pressing the meat from one end to the other, or use a sharp knife to slit the casing and remove the meat.

How to sauté sausage: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned and cooked through.

How to crush tomatoes: Place whole tomatoes in a bowl and crush them with your hands or use a fork to break them up into smaller pieces.

How to simmer sauce: Once the sauce is brought to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

How to cook 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 the pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

How To Make Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce over Pasta

Top your favorite pasta with tender turkey sausage and creamy tomato sauce for a complete pasta dish. You can also use homemade sausage as an alternative.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbItalian turkey sausage,casings removed, lean
28oztomatoes,can, crushed
¼cupfresh basil,torn
Salt and pepper,to taste
½cupricotta,fat free
16ozwhole wheat,uncooked, high fiber or low carb pasta

Instructions

Remove the casings from the sausage and saute in a deep skillet.
When browned and cooked through, add crushed tomatoes.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
Add basil and ricotta and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve ½ cup sauce over approximately 1 cup of your favorite cooked whole wheat, low carb, or high fiber pasta.

Nutrition

Calories: 322.28kcal
Fat: 7.70g
Saturated Fat: 2.60g
Trans Fat: 0.20g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.88g
Carbohydrates: 47.15g
Fiber: 8.46g
Sugar: 2.89g
Protein: 19.24g
Cholesterol: 50.43mg
Sodium: 533.83mg
Calcium: 72.57mg
Potassium: 636.46mg
Iron: 2.90mg
Vitamin A: 69.81µg
Vitamin C: 15.03mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

When sautéing the turkey sausage, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will not only ensure that it cooks evenly, but also that each bite of your pasta dish will have a good amount of sausage in it. Additionally, when adding the ricotta to the sauce, consider whisking it in gradually to ensure it blends smoothly and doesn't clump. This will give your sauce a creamy, rich texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

Prep ahead: Prepare the ingredients in advance, such as chopping vegetables or measuring out spices, to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals in the future.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking tools, reducing prep time and minimizing stress.

Multitasking: Plan and execute tasks simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while the water is boiling, to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta Recipe

Italian turkey sausage - Substitute with vegetarian Italian sausage: This is a great plant-based alternative that still provides the same Italian sausage flavor and texture without the meat.
Tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are a convenient substitute for fresh tomatoes, and they provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
Fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor.
Ricotta - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese can be a suitable replacement for ricotta in this recipe, providing a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
Whole wheat pasta - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free pasta is a great alternative to whole wheat pasta, offering a similar texture and taste.

Presenting Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

Elevate the plating: Arrange the pasta neatly on the plate, ensuring it is visually appealing and inviting.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle freshly torn basil leaves over the pasta to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Create a beautiful pasta nest: Use tongs to twirl the pasta into a nest-like shape, creating an elegant and visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle of olive oil: Carefully drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the pasta for a glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor.
Use a fine dusting of Parmesan: Grate a small amount of Parmesan cheese over the pasta, adding a touch of elegance and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and enhances the overall presentation, ensuring a visually striking final result.
Add a touch of microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the pasta for a sophisticated and refined touch, adding both visual appeal and a hint of freshness.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, focusing on creating a balanced and harmonious visual composition.
Use a minimalistic approach: Keep the presentation clean and uncluttered, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage.
Consider the placement of the sauce: Drizzle the sauce strategically around the pasta, ensuring it enhances the overall presentation without overwhelming the dish.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Deep skillet: A deep skillet is used for sautéing and simmering the turkey sausage and tomato sauce.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the sauce and breaking up the sausage as it cooks.
Pot: A pot is needed for cooking the pasta.
Colander: A colander is used for draining the cooked pasta.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is essential for removing the casings from the turkey sausage and chopping the fresh basil.
Cutting board: A cutting board is used for prepping the ingredients, such as chopping the fresh basil and slicing the sausage casings.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used for portioning the ricotta and crushed tomatoes.
Lid: A lid is needed for covering the skillet while simmering the sauce.
Tongs: Tongs are useful for tossing the cooked pasta with the sauce before serving.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Pasta

Let the turkey sausage and tomato sauce cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bag.
If using a container, leave about 1 inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Refrigerator storage: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer storage: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to use the frozen sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out while reheating.
Serve the reheated sauce over freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy your delicious meal!

How To Reheat Leftovers

Reheat the turkey sausage and tomato sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer and is heated through. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the sauce doesn't burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, transfer the turkey sausage and tomato sauce to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the sauce is heated through. The damp paper towel helps prevent the sauce from splattering and drying out.
For a crispy texture on the turkey sausage, remove the sausage pieces from the sauce and reheat them separately in a skillet over medium heat until they're crispy on the outside and heated through. Then, reheat the tomato sauce separately and combine the two before serving.
If you have leftover pasta, reheat it separately from the sauce to prevent it from becoming mushy. Boil a pot of water, add the pasta, and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it's heated through. Drain the pasta and then combine it with the reheated turkey sausage and tomato sauce.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta, garnish it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a handful of torn fresh basil leaves before serving.

Random Fact About Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

The turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It provides a good source of lean protein from the turkey sausage and is packed with the rich flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil. This dish is a great way to incorporate whole wheat pasta into your diet, providing a good source of fiber and essential nutrients. Additionally, the use of ricotta adds a creamy texture and a touch of richness to the sauce. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like turkey sausage and canned tomatoes makes it budget-friendly. The addition of ricotta and fresh basil elevates the dish without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-20.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe has several healthy elements, such as using turkey sausage instead of pork, which is lower in fat and calories. Whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta. The addition of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and antioxidants. However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier.

The recipe could benefit from:

Increasing the amount of vegetables by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrients and fiber
Using low-fat ricotta cheese or replacing it with a small amount of grated Parmesan to reduce the overall fat content
Opting for a lower sodium variety of canned tomatoes or using fresh tomatoes to reduce the salt content
Incorporating more herbs and spices, such as oregano, garlic, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
Serving the pasta with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal and add more nutrients

By making these small adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious taste. Experimenting with different vegetables and herbs can also help keep the recipe interesting and enjoyable for the whole family.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Dish

This turkey sausage and tomato sauce over pasta recipe is a delightful and healthy option for a comforting meal. The use of Italian turkey sausage adds a lean and flavorful twist, while the addition of fresh basil and ricotta brings a burst of freshness and creaminess to the dish. The whole wheat pasta provides a nutritious and hearty base for the rich and savory sauce. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice for any occasion.

Enhance Your Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection.

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil, herbs, and roasted until caramelized and tender.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing topped with shaved parmesan cheese.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic, butter, and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Tiramisu: Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder for a decadent dessert option.

Similar Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection on skewers for a delicious and healthy side dish or main course.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine grilled chicken, fresh mango, and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a refreshing and satisfying salad that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, onions, and garlic, then blend with vegetable broth and warm spices for a comforting and creamy soup that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Berry Crisp: Mix your favorite berries with a crumbly oat topping and bake until golden brown for a sweet and satisfying dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the perfect combination of crispy bread, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil with our delectable bruschetta appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, velvety smooth chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh, juicy berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. The Italian turkey sausage provides a lean and flavorful protein source, while the addition of tomatoes and fresh basil infuses the dish with vibrant, aromatic notes. The use of ricotta adds a creamy richness, elevating the overall dish. Additionally, the incorporation of whole wheat pasta offers a nutritious and hearty base. With a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your own Turkey Sausage and Tomato Sauce Over Pasta recipe or discuss this delicious dish further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

I recommend using whole wheat, low carb, or high fiber pasta for this recipe. These options complement the flavors of the turkey sausage and tomato sauce beautifully.

Can I use regular pork sausage instead of turkey sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute the turkey sausage with regular pork sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don't have ricotta cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute. It will still add a creamy texture to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the turkey sausage and tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and serve it over freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze the leftover sauce?

Absolutely! The leftover sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it when you're ready to enjoy it again.