Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz jar marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups uncooked penne pasta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a sauté pan, over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until cooked through and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  2. Place the browned sausage in the crock pot and add diced onions, minced garlic, marinara sauce, heavy cream, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
  4. 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked penne pasta and mix well. Ensure pasta is submerged in the sauce.
  5. 5 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover until cheese is melted. Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh basil and optional Parmesan.