Creamy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta

In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt the butter.

Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded and grated Parmesan cheese in batches until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Season the cheese sauce with salt to taste, then set aside.

In a separate large, wide pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add the ground Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.

Add the chopped broccoli rabe to the pan with the sausage.

Season with salt and red pepper flakes, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli rabe is tender-crisp.

Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture and stir to combine.

Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan.

Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.