One Pot Cheesy Pasta and Sausage

One Pot Cheesy Pasta and Sausage 

 3 cups halved grape tomatoes, divided 
1 large onion, sliced
 1 pound smoked Italian sausage links, precooked (sliced into coins)
 20-30 basil leaves, divided
 4 garlic cloves, sliced 
1 pound dry linguine 
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper 
4 1/2 cups water 
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

 Reserve (set aside)

1 cup halved tomatoes, 10 basil leaves and cheese.

 Combine remaining ingredients in a large (12") braising pan or dutch oven over medium high heat.  Cover and bring to a boil.  Once water is boiling, remove cover and cook 7-9 minutes until pasta is al dente (with a bite to it).  Toss pasta with tongs occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.  Liquid will be mostly absorbed when pasta is cooked. Add cheese and toss to combine.  Cheese may clump but will melt into the sauce after a few minutes.  Toss in remaining tomatoes and basil before serving. Enjoy! -