Penne with Sausage and Roasted Tomatoes

Penne with Sausage and Roasted Tomatoes is a great weeknight dinner! Penne pasta tossed with roasted tomatoes, spicy sausage and sweet fresh basil. 

When you’re looking for a great weeknight dinner, pasta is always a great option. I like to make them because they tend be quick and easy, make great leftovers and the flavor possibilities are endless.

Whether you’re making something decadent and creamy like Fettuccine Alfredo. A classic like Easy Baked Ziti or something outside the box like Pulled Pork Rigatoni , pasta is always a winner. 

Well now it’s time to add a new recipe to the mix. This Penne with Sausage and Roasted Tomatoes is hearty, easy and a great weeknight dinner option. 

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make it. 

Penne with Sausage and Roasted Tomatoes Ingredients: 

The key to an easy dinner, is using a recipe that requires few ingredients. This recipe is just that. You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to get it on the table.

• PASTA: I used dried penne pasta in this recipe but you can use another short pasta that you have on hand. This would be great with shells, ziti or elbows too. 
• ITALIAN SAUSAGE: Use mild Italian sausage or hot Italian sausage if you want a little kick. If the sausage has casings make sure to remove those first. 
• CHERRY TOMATOES: Cherry tomatoes are sweeter than their larger counterparts and get even sweeter and more tomato flavor when they are roasted. In this recipe they start to burst and create their own sauce. 
• GARLIC: This recipe is heavy on the garlic, you’ll roast the tomatoes in garlic and then add a little more to the pasta. 
• FRESH BASIL: Tomatoes and basil pair so well together and this recipe is no exception. The fresh basil will add a sweet basil flavor and a pop of color. 
• SALT/PEPPER 
• PARMESAN CHEESE: Optional but makes a great garnish!

Step by Step Photos and Instructions: 

One of the things that I love about this Penne with Sausage and Tomatoes recipe is that it is so easy to make! It might take a bit longer than the traditional pasta recipe because you do have to roast the tomatoes but they doesn’t require a lot of work. Follow along with these step by step photos and instructions to guide you each step of the way. 

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• STEP #1: Place the tomatoes, garlic and oil in a small baking dish. Roast for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes stop and start to release their juices. 
• STEP #2: Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water. Drain and set aside. 
• STEP #3: While pasta is cooking brown sausage. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of pan drippings. 
• STEP #4 Add in garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add pasta, tomatoes and sausage to the pan and toss to coat. If pasta seems dry add reserved pasta water. Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve. 

Storage and Leftovers: 

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and use within a few days. Reheat with a quick zap in the microwave or warmed slowly in a pan on the stove. You may need to add a bit of water if cooking on the stove. 

Looking for more fresh tomato recipes? Try these: 

Tomato Jam is a great way to use summer tomatoes! 

You can’t get anymore classic than a Tomato Sandwich. A must make summer lunch! 

Turn those perfectly ripened summer heirloom tomatoes into this gorgeous Tomato Tart. 

Note: Originally posted in 2014. Updated in 2024 with new photos, step by step photos and nutrition information.