A creamy and flavorful pasta dish combining savory sausage, sweet peas, and rich mascarpone cheese for a delightful meal.
Brown the sausage in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and slightly crispy for added texture.
Remove the sausage from the Dutch oven and set it aside, leaving a small amount of drippings in the pot.
This step allows the sausage to retain its flavor while you prepare the sauce.
Add the chopped onion to the Dutch oven and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
Stir frequently to prevent the onion from burning.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Reducing the broth concentrates its flavor, enhancing the sauce.
Stir in the mascarpone cheese until it melts and combines with the broth to form a creamy sauce.
Ensure the mascarpone is fully incorporated for a smooth sauce.
Meanwhile, cook the penne in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Add the peas to the sauce and cook until they are tender.
Frozen peas cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Combine the cooked pasta and sausage with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and serve immediately.
Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.