Creamy, Cheesy Italian Sausage and Basil Penne

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (1.5oz, 42g)
• 1 small onion (chopped fine)
• 3 cloves garlic (chopped fine or put through the garlic press)
• 1 lb sweet Italian sausage (454g **see note**)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, thyme, marjoram, and oregano)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup chicken broth (8.3oz, 235g)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (12.6oz, 357g)
• 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (2.6oz, 74g)
• 1 handful fresh basil (sliced thin)
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb penne pasta (454g)
• 1 tablespoon butter (.5oz, 14g)

Directions