Ingredients

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 large or 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, removed from the casing
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 pound long pasta
  • About 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Method

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it.
  • Put the oil in a 10-inch skillet and turn the heat to medium; a minute later, add the onion.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the sausage in bits and turn the heat to medium-high; cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned, 5 to 10 minutes.
  • Add the milk and tomato paste, along with some salt and pepper; stir to blend and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until thick but not dry.
  • Keep it warm if necessary and, if it becomes too thick, add a little more milk, water, or chicken stock.
  • Meanwhile, cook the pasta until tender but not mushy.
  • Drain it and toss with the sauce and about half the Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning, and serve, passing the remaining Parmigiano-Reggiano