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)
• handful of fresh basil, sliced thin
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb penne pasta (454g)
• 1 tablespoon butter (.5oz, 14g)

Directions