Creating Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:

1. Cook the Paccheri: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the paccheri and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Sausage: Push the onion and garlic to the side of the skillet. Add the sausage to the center, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained paccheri to the skillet with the ragu. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If necessary, add more of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. To serve, plate the pasta and top with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious plate of Paccheri with Quick Sausage Ragu that is sure to impress!