Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche Magic at Home

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Leonardo Recipes Team

When those chilly evenings start creeping in, I often crave a dish that wraps me in warmth and comfort like a cozy blanket. That s when this Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche becomes my salvation. The first time I made it, the delightful aroma of sizzling garlic and sweet fennel wafted through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits.

As I balanced the spices and mingled the rich tomato sauce with creamy goodness, I felt that exciting jolt of creativity so often found in cooking turning a handful of ingredients into a symphony of flavors. This dish is not only incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes, but it s an all-time crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or even a cozy night in.

So, if you re tired of the same old weeknight meals or just looking for a way to bring a touch of restaurant-quality flavor to your table, grab your apron and let s dive into this delicious pasta adventure!

Why is Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche a Must-Try?

Simplicity is key: This recipe uses straightforward steps, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Incredible Flavor: The rich combination of pork sausage, fennel, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce creates a taste sensation that ll leave everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Cooking: Ready in just 30 minutes, it s perfect for those busy weeknights where you still want a homemade meal.

Comfort Food Supreme: This dish brings warmth and coziness that s perfect for chilly evenings or any time you re craving comfort.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love it, making it a great addition to any family dinner rotation.

For a full week of delicious meals, don t miss out on our simple weeknight pasta ideas.

Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious creamy tomato, sausage & fennel mezze maniche!

For the Sauce

• Extra virgin olive oil This flavorful oil adds richness to your sauce.
• Shallot Finely diced, it provides a mild sweetness essential for layering flavors.
• Garlic Sliced for a fragrant kick that enhances your sauce s aroma.
• Fennel seeds Lightly crushed, they infuse a sweet, anise-like flavor that complements the sausage.
• Dried chili flakes A pinch adds just the right amount of heat for balance.
• Pork and fennel sausages Casings removed and broken into pieces for easy blending with the sauce.
• Tomato paste This ingredient adds a concentrated tomato flavor crucial for the sauce s richness.
• Dry white wine Use it to deglaze the pan and add depth to your sauce.
• Thickened cream For that creamy texture that makes the dish divine.
• Parmigiano Reggiano Freshly grated for a nutty, salty finish.
• Fresh basil leaves Finely shredded to brighten up the flavors.

For the Pasta

• Mezze maniche (or rigatoni) These pasta shapes hold the sauce beautifully.
• Sea salt Essential for seasoning the pasta water to enhance the overall flavor.

Prepare these ingredients, and you ll be on your way to creating a sumptuous dish that s bound to become a family favorite!

How to Make Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche

1. Prep Ingredients: Gather and prepare all ingredients before starting. This helps you seamlessly cook the pasta and sauce simultaneously, ensuring everything is fresh and delicious.

2. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 2 generous pinches of sea salt, which will enhance the flavor of your pasta as it cooks.

3. Cook Pasta: Add the mezze maniche to the boiling water and cook for 9 minutes, or for 4-5 minutes less than the package instructions to achieve perfect al dente.

4. Heat Oil: While pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat, allowing it to warm and infuse your dish with flavor.

5. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced shallot, sliced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, and chili flakes to the pan. Stir for about a minute until the mixture becomes fragrant and golden.

6. Brown Sausage: Incorporate the pork and fennel sausages into the pan, cooking until browned while breaking it apart to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

7. Add Tomato Paste: Push the sausage to the side and add the tomato paste. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting it deepen in color to a rich brick-red, enhancing the sauce s flavor.

8. Deglaze with Wine: Return the sausage to the central area and pour in the dry white wine. Let it simmer for around a minute to reduce slightly, intensifying the taste.

9. Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the thickened cream. Simmer for about a minute until the sauce starts coming together, becoming rich and creamy.

10. Finish Sauce: Just before the pasta is done, mix in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and shredded basil into the sauce, adding a burst of flavor to the creamy concoction.

11. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Use tongs to scoop the mezze maniche directly from the pot into the pan, bringing a small amount of starchy pasta water along to enhance sauce adhesion.

12. Toss Together: Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve a silky, creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta.

13. Serve: Adjust seasoning to your taste and serve the pasta hot, straight from the pan, allowing everyone to dish up their own comforting portion.

Optional: Garnish with additional basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche?

Your plate is only part of the story; let s round out this delicious meal with ideal pairings that elevate your dining experience.

• Garlic Bread: A classic favorite, warm and buttery garlic bread provides perfect dippers for that silky sauce.

• Roasted Broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli adds a delightful crunch and freshness to your pasta, balancing all the creaminess with vibrant green flavor.

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing complements the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast. Top it with Parmesan for extra flavor!

• Red Wine: A smooth Chianti or Merlot enhances the meal beautifully, enriching the flavors of the pork and sauce, making each bite even more delightful.

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables charred for grilling bring a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with your pasta. Their colorful presentation also brightens the table!

• Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with velvety chocolate mousse. Its luscious texture and rich flavor make for an indulgent finish after your creamy dish.

Remember, each of these pairings not only complements your creamy tomato, sausage & fennel mezze maniche but also brings an inviting warmth to your table!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche

Fridge: Store any leftover creamy tomato, sausage & fennel mezze maniche in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to retain creaminess.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, add the frozen or thawed pasta to a pan with a splash of water or stock, stirring frequently until heated through. This keeps the sauce silky and delicious.

Serving Tip: For the best flavor, consider reheating it slowly on the stove rather than in the microwave, which can affect the texture of the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the sausage, aromatics, and tomato paste as directed, then cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain the sauce s creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove while stirring in a little extra cream. The pasta should be cooked fresh, for the best al dente texture, but you can chop the basil and grate the Parmigiano Reggiano ahead of time. When you re ready to serve, boil the pasta and finish combining it with the reheated sauce for a comforting meal that s just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche

• Prep Ahead: Have all ingredients ready before cooking; this keeps everything organized and ensures the sauce is hot when the pasta is al dente.
• Watch the Pasta: Avoid overcooking your mezze maniche by checking it a minute or two before the recommended time. Understood al dente, it will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add pasta water gradually for a silky texture. If too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken.
• Flavor Balance: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Don t be afraid to add more chili flakes for extra heat!
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh basil at the end brings a burst of freshness that elevates the creamy, tomato sauce, making the dish vibrant and aromatic.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap the sausage for a spicier variety or even chicken sausage for a lighter option in your creamy tomato, sausage & fennel mezze maniche.

Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh jalapeños for an extra layer of heat. Start with just a small amount and adjust to your spice tolerance.
• Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat mezze maniche or rigatoni for a healthier twist that adds a nutty flavor and a good dose of fiber.
• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the pork sausage for plant-based sausages or sautéed mushrooms. This offers a lovely, umami-rich flavor while catering to vegetarian diets.
• Creamy Dream: Substitute half the cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and tangy richness without the heaviness.
• Herb Explosion: Mix in a variety of fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, or thyme along with the basil, to elevate the flavor profile with aromatic freshness.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add a blend of mozzarella or goat cheese along with Parmigiano Reggiano for an extra creamy texture and unique taste.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts just before serving for an enticing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Change of Pace: Switch up the pasta shape and try it with shells or fusilli, which can hold onto the sauce in delightful bites.

Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting fennel sausage?
Absolutely! When choosing your pork and fennel sausage, look for plump links with no dark spots or excessive fat. The aroma should be fragrant with a hint of anise. If possible, opt for fresh sausage from a local butcher for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche?
Store any leftover creamy tomato, sausage & fennel mezze maniche in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it gently or warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to help restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Creamy Tomato, Sausage & Fennel Mezze Maniche?
Yes! If you want to save it for later, allow the dish to cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of water or stock as you stir to bring back that creamy goodness.

What s the best way to reheat creamy pasta dishes?
For the best results, reheat your frozen or thawed creamy pasta dishes gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth, and keep stirring on low heat until heated through. This method helps maintain the sauce s silky texture, ensuring your meal remains delicious!

Any tips for making this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! For a gluten-free option, substitute mezze maniche or rigatoni with gluten-free pasta. If you re looking to make it dairy-free, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Always check the sausage ingredients to ensure they align with any dietary needs, especially for allergies.

What if my sauce turned out too thick?
No worries! If your creamy sauce is too thick, add a little starchy pasta water or a splash of stock while stirring. This helps to loosen the sauce and create that silky consistency. Just take it slow and keep adding until you reach your desired creaminess, and you ll be good to go!