This Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With juicy sausage, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Cooking this meal is so easy! I love how it all comes together in just one pot. Plus, it makes the kitchen smell amazing—my neighbors probably think I’m hosting a dinner party! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Casarecce Pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce nicely, but you can use penne or farfalle if that’s what you have. I love how the twists of casarecce grab the creamy sauce!
Italian Sausage: Choose between mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a sweet and tangy flavor. If unavailable, roasted red peppers can be a great substitute. Both add wonderful color to the dish!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy, but for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream, like coconut cream or cashew cream.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Perfectly Thick?
To achieve that creamy texture you want, it’s important to simmer the sauce correctly. Here’s how:
- After adding cream and broth, let the sauce simmer gently; this reduces it and improves flavor.
- Stir often to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on it. If it looks too thin, simmer longer to thicken.
- You can use the reserved pasta cooking water to adjust thickness if needed; it’s starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Enjoy making this Tuscan Sausage Pasta! Personal touches make it fun, so feel free to experiment with ingredients based on what you have at home.
Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz casarecce pasta (or penne)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed, mild or spicy)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), sliced
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cooking adventure will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it. Set aside the drained pasta for now.
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Once the sausage is browned, stir in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Let this cook together for 1-2 minutes, allowing those beautiful aromas to fill your kitchen!
4. Add the Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh baby spinach. Cook it for about 2 minutes, stirring until the spinach wilts down and becomes tender.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or the reserved pasta water). Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the dried Italian herbs. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to your skillet, and toss everything together well so that each piece is coated with that creamy, delicious sauce. Season it with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Turn off the heat and serve the pasta warm. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top, and enjoy your comforting bowl of Tuscan Sausage Pasta!
This dish is a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors, making it a family favorite. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitution and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a little longer to cook than regular pasta.
What If I Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
No worries! If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers. They will give a different flavor but will still taste delicious in the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also load up on more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
