Caramelized Apple, Onion, and Sausage Pasta is a rich, savory dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of caramelized apples and onions with the hearty flavors of sausage. This pasta is ideal for a cozy dinner on a crisp evening and can be made with just a few ingredients. With layers of flavor in each bite, this pasta is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (or any sausage of your choice), casings removed if using links
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once al dente, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. Set the pasta aside.
2. Caramelize the Onions and Apples In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, cooking for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are softened and golden. Add the apple slices and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized with the onions. Remove the onion and apple mixture from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Sausage In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and thyme, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Combine Everything Return the caramelized apples and onions to the skillet with the sausage. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well mixed. If the pasta seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
5. Season and Serve Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta warm, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Variations
- Different Sausages Try using spicy sausage for added heat or a chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Add Greens Fresh spinach or kale can be added to the skillet for extra nutrition. Stir them in just before adding the pasta so they wilt slightly.
- Apple Varieties Feel free to use tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or stick to sweeter varieties for a balanced taste.
Conclusion
This Caramelized Apple, Onion, and Sausage Pasta is a unique twist on classic pasta dishes, blending the sweet and savory notes of caramelized fruits and onions with hearty sausage. Perfect for cozy fall nights, this dish is easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious, seasonal pasta with family and friends!
