Best Easy Rachael Ray Christmas Pasta Recipe
Christmas is a time for indulging in delicious meals, and what better way to celebrate than with a mouthwatering pasta dish? Rachael Ray, the renowned celebrity chef, has a recipe that is perfect for the holiday season. This easy-to-make dish will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I substitute the Italian sausage?
Certainly! You can use ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage as a substitute.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Cook the pasta just before serving and toss it with the reheated sauce.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
5. Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Ricotta, fontina, or mozzarella can be delicious alternatives to Parmesan.
7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this dish.
8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
9. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
This recipe is best made on the stovetop, but you can adapt it for a slow cooker by cooking the sausage, onion, and garlic first, then transferring them to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
10. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Absolutely! Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can add depth and complexity to the flavors.
11. Can I make this dish spicy?
If you enjoy spicy food, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking the sausage and onion. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat.