Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta
Description:
This Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish made with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Balanced with the flavors of onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of Parmesan, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
Pasta – 12 oz (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well)
Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – 1 lb, casings removed
Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Sun-dried tomatoes – 1/3 cup, chopped (in oil, drained)
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Chicken broth – 1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese – 3/4 cup, freshly grated
Spinach (optional) – 2 cups fresh
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Salt and pepper – to taste
Red pepper flakes – optional, for heat
Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish
Instructions:
Cook pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Brown sausage:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside if needed.
Sauté aromatics:
In the same skillet, add onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook another 1 minute.
Deglaze & make sauce:
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add sausage and cheese:
Return sausage to the skillet, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. If too thick, add a bit of pasta water to loosen.
Add greens (optional):
Stir in fresh spinach until wilted (1–2 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Garnish and serve:
Top with chopped parsley or basil and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Total Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 720 kcal
Protein 28 g
Carbohydrates 58 g
Fat 43 g
Saturated Fat 20 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 940 mg
Cholesterol 115 mg
Note: These values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner. For a creamy texture without heavy cream, mix milk with a bit of cream cheese or a roux.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, just substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Creamy sauces can separate after freezing, but it can work. Reheat slowly and stir well.
Q: What vegetables go well with this?
A: Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli make gre
at additions.