Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a delectable dish that combines savory sausage, rich cream, and vibrant spinach with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This comforting and hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, bringing a taste of Italy to your table with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, add the ground sausage. Cook and crumble the sausage until it is no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Whisk over medium-high heat until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Add Vegetables:
Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Let it simmer until the spinach starts to wilt.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in the cooked pasta. Mix until everything is heated throughout and well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Kcal: 550 per serving
- Servings: 6
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the chosen pasta shape.
2. Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage? Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be used as a healthier alternative to pork sausage. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the sauce.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components (cook the pasta, brown the sausage, and make the sauce) ahead of time and assemble everything just before serving. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
4. How can I make this dish less rich? To reduce the richness of the dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or add a splash of milk to the sauce. Additionally, you can use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese variety.
5. Can I omit the sun-dried tomatoes? Yes, if you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes or don’t have them on hand, you can omit them from the recipe. You can also substitute them with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
6. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Thaw the spinach and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. Adjust the amount based on personal preference.
7. Is this dish suitable for freezing? While it can be frozen, the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. Freeze the pasta without the cheese, then add the cheese when reheating for best results.
8. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the sausage and chicken broth, are also gluten-free.
9. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian seasoning? Yes, you can use a combination of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme instead of dried Italian seasoning. Adjust the quantities to taste.
10. Can I add additional vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the dish. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired doneness before serving.
These FAQs address common questions and provide helpful tips to ensure your Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta turns out perfectly every time.
Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of this Tuscan Sausage Pasta, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!