Welcome to this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe! If you’re a fan of rich and savory dishes, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines the best of both Italian and American flavors with its creamy, hearty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Introduction
The Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is inspired by the hearty and comforting cuisine of Tuscany, a region known for its rich culinary traditions. This dish combines tender penne with flavorful Italian sausage, all coated in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. This creamy pasta dish will surely satisfy anyone looking for an indulgent yet straightforward comfort meal.
Learn more about flavorful pasta dishes here.
Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, ground
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1⁄2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to make this delicious Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta recipe:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
- Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow it to thicken for 3-5 minutes.
- Combine everything: Stir in the grated Parmesan, cooked sausage, and baby spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated cheese.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with fresh cherry tomatoes for a milder flavor.
- Reserve pasta water: Adding a splash of pasta water helps to achieve a silky, smooth sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and better heat retention.
- If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. For a refreshing beverage, consider serving a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a glass of lemon-infused water. The richness of the pasta pairs wonderfully with lighter, zesty accompaniments.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 923 kcal
- Fat: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 73g
- Protein: 34g
This dish provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates while offering a rich source of calcium from the Parmesan cheese and nutrients from the spinach.
Storage and Leftovers for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. To reheat, you can use the stove on low heat or the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
- Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times. - How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage alternative or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. - Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. - What other vegetables can I add?
You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s texture and flavor.
Related Recipes for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
: This recipe offers a hearty twist with sausage and cornbread, a perfect complement to your pasta nights.
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
: These sausage balls are a great appetizer to pair with your creamy pasta.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the steps to make this delicious Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is perfect for cozy nights at home or entertaining guests. Let us know in the comments how it turned out or share your favorite variations of this dish. Enjoy!
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Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Meal
Description
Welcome to this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe! If you’re a fan of rich and savory dishes, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines the best of both Italian and American flavors with its creamy, hearty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, ground
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1⁄2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1⁄2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and set it aside.
- Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow it to thicken for 3-5 minutes.
- Combine everything: Stir in the grated Parmesan, cooked sausage, and baby spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated cheese.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute them with fresh cherry tomatoes for a milder flavor.
- Reserve pasta water: Adding a splash of pasta water helps to achieve a silky, smooth sauce.
