When you want a pasta dish that’s cozy, filling, and full of bold flavor, this vegan sausage pasta ticks every box.
The combination of plant-based sausage, garlic, herbs, and a rich tomato sauce makes it the kind of meal that always hits the spot.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight and tasty enough to serve when you’re feeding friends or family.
With plenty of ways to mix it up based on what you have in the fridge, this is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a regular.
Let’s get into making it.
Why We Love This Recipe
Vegan sausage brings a savoury depth and satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce.
Combined with pasta and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that’s hearty without being heavy.
It’s also incredibly flexible. You can make it spicy or mild, add vegetables or keep it classic.
Everything cooks in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for days when you need something quick but still want a meal that feels full of flavour.
How To Make This Vegan Sausage Pasta For The Whole Family
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this pasta:
- 350g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 vegan sausages, sliced or crumbled
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- A handful of chopped parsley or basil
- Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for topping (optional)
Method
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Cook the sausage and aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan. Add the onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and vegan sausage. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, breaking up the sausage slightly if using a softer style.
3. Add the tomatoes and seasoning
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, herbs, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with pasta
Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve and garnish
Serve hot, topped with chopped fresh herbs and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast if you like.
Our Top Tips
Choose a sausage with bold flavour
Not all vegan sausages are the same. Some are milder, while others bring plenty of seasoning.
For a dish like this, go for one that’s rich with herbs and spices so it adds depth to the sauce without needing much extra. If you’ve got a favourite brand, this is a great time to use it.
Crumbled or sliced — both work
How you prepare the sausage depends on what you’re after. Crumbling it into the pan gives you a sauce that feels more like a ragù, with bits in every bite.
Slicing it into coins or chunks gives you more texture and makes each bite a bit more substantial. There’s no wrong answer, so just go with what sounds good to you.
Don’t rush the sauce
Even though this is a quick recipe, giving the tomatoes a few extra minutes to simmer helps build flavour.
It gives the garlic and herbs time to work their way through and lets the sausage soak up the sauce too.
Finish with fresh herbs
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil at the end brings everything together.
It adds colour, a bit of brightness, and helps balance the richness of the sausage and tomatoes. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to the final dish.
Variations You Can Try
There are lots of ways to make this pasta your own.
Adding greens like spinach or kale is a simple way to boost nutrition without changing the flavour too much. Stir them in right at the end so they stay fresh and bright.
You can also sauté some mushrooms, courgette, or red peppers along with the sausage for a more vegetable-packed version.
For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of oat or soy milk, or add a spoonful of vegan cream cheese or cashew cream just before serving. This makes the sauce richer and gives it a slightly smoother texture.
If you enjoy heat, don’t be shy with the spices. Smoked paprika adds depth, while extra red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce can give it a nice kick. You can even try a little chopped sun-dried tomato or a few olives for a savoury punch.
This is the kind of recipe that plays well with whatever you’re craving, so feel free to experiment.
Storage and Leftovers
This pasta keeps well, which makes it great for leftovers or meal prep. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
When you’re ready to reheat, use a small splash of water or plant milk to loosen the sauce and bring back its creaminess. Warm it gently in a pan or microwave until hot through.
It also makes a great packed lunch the next day. You can enjoy it warm or even at room temperature if you’re on the go.
Final Thoughts
Vegan sausage pasta brings together the best of comfort food and easy cooking. It’s filling, full of flavour, and simple to make with everyday ingredients.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family, this dish is a solid option when you want something that feels generous and satisfying without being complicated.
Add it to your rotation for those evenings when you want something hearty, reliable, and packed with taste. It’s the kind of meal that always earns a spot on the favourites list.
A Vegan Sausage Pasta Recipe That’s Loaded With Flavor
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
350g pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 vegan sausages, sliced or crumbled
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
A handful of chopped parsley or basil
Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for topping (optional)
Directions
- Cook the pasta
- Cook the sausage and aromatics
- Add the tomatoes and seasoning
- Combine with pasta
- Serve and garnish
