Step 1

Cut 12 ounces andouille sausage crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rounds and thinly slice 1/2 medium fennel bulb. Place both in a large, straight-sided skillet. Add 4 1/2 cups water, 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes and their juices, 12 ounces dried linguine, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 2

Bring to a boil over high heat. Boil the mixture, stirring and turning the pasta with tongs to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and almost all the liquid has evaporated, 8 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, tear 1 cup fresh basil leaves in half. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the basil.

Step 3

Remove from the heat. Taste and season with more salt as needed. Garnish with more fresh basil.