¼ pound sweet Italian sausage, casing removedabout 2 sausage links
2Tablespoontomato paste
2teaspoonsItalian seasoning
1teaspoondried basil
32ozchicken brothI used chicken bone broth
2cupswater
parmesan cheese rind or a small piece of parmesanabout 2 inches (see notes)
4cupsjarred spaghetti sauceI used Rao’s
1cup crushed tomatoes
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
8ozXL shell pasta
1cupwhole milk ricotta cheese
2tablespoonschopped parsleymore for garnish
Pinchsalt
14 ounceball burratatorn and served over soup
½shredded parmesan cheese
red pepper flakesfor garnish
fresh basil and parsleyfor garnish
Instructions
In a small mixing bowl combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside for garnishing
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot add 2 Tablespoons olive oil and heat over medium-high. Remove the sausage casing and sautee for 2-3 minutes until browned.
Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add tomato sauce and paste, crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, and water, stir to combine, and increase heat to high. Bring to a boil.
Cook pasta shells in a separate pot, drain, and rinse with cold water. Add in pasta shells back to broth about 15 minutes before serving and reduce heat slightly. This time will vary based on the noodle brand so read the box for cooking time.
Serve topped with a dollop of the ricotta cheese mixture, torn burrata, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Notes
Substitute 2 tablespoons grated parmesan if you don't have parmesan rind.