Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage with a rich, creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. The balance of hearty sausage and fresh vegetables makes every bite satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage
• Pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Garlic
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh spinach
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
9. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated.
10. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Use kale instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to increase the heat level.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. Reheat the sauce and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or any pasta that holds sauce well is ideal.

Can I freeze Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?

It’s not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce without the pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently and avoid boiling it vigorously after adding the cream.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Consider adding a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers can be a good substitute, offering a sweet and smoky flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of white wine before the cream can enhance the flavor. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding the cream.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for lean sausage or turkey sausage.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a delectable, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and quick preparation make it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Enjoy the savory blend of sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in every bite!

Print