Maria's Quick Pasta

Step 1 -In a large pot of salted, boiling water, add the pasta and cook it to al dente, according to the package directions.

Step 2 -Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the remainder. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3 -In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil.

Step 4 -Add the Italian sausage to the hot oil and cook, while crumbling the meat, until it is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 5 -Add the onions, the garlic, the salt, the black pepper, and the red pepper flakes to the ground sausage and stir to combine.

Step 6 -Cook the sausage mixture, while stirring, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 7 -Reduce the heat to medium.

Step 8 -Add the heavy cream to the sausage mixture and stir to combine.

Step 9 -Allow the cream mixture to heat until it is just simmering.

Step 10 -Add 1 cup of the parmesan cheese to the cream mixture and stir until melted.

Step 11 -Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and toss until the pasta is fully coated.

Step 12 -If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. You may not need all or any of the pasta water.

Step 13 -Cook the pasta mixture until it is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 14 -Top with the basil and the extra parmesan and serve.