Prepare to indulge in a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! Our Creamy Basil Baked Sausage is not just a dish; it's a comforting hug on a plate that combines savory Italian sausage with a luscious cream sauce, all elevated by the vibrant freshness of basil. Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe promises to be a showstopper. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be savoring every creamy, cheesy bite in no time. Ready to discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the sausages cook evenly and the cream sauce bubbles nicely.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it's browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Ensure it's cooked through; it should no longer be pink in the center.
- Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Drain excess fat from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt as the Parmesan is already salty.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the chopped fresh basil. Stir until the sausage is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the sausage and cream mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it bake uniformly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and slightly golden on top.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve the creamy basil baked sausage warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can use sweet or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Make sure to brown the sausage well; this step adds depth to the flavor of your dish. A little caramelization goes a long way!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil for a vibrant taste. Dried basil won't provide the same aromatic punch that fresh herbs do.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a lighter cream.
- Perfect Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time. You want the sauce to be bubbling and golden, but be careful not to overbake, as it can dry out.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving for an extra touch of indulgence!
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more, making for a delicious next-day meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 115mg
