Get ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy sausage pasta that’s sure to warm your heart! This delightful dish combines savory chicken sausage with a luscious, velvety sauce made from cream and a hint of garlic. Toss in some fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked on this creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the creamy goodness!
- This one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.
- It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make.
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in.
- Kid-approved and oh-so-satisfying!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 30 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free Option Available |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Hot with Parmesan |
Ingredients
- Italian sausage – adds a savory, hearty flavor to the dish.
- Pasta – choose your favorite type for the perfect base.
- Heavy cream – creates a rich, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- Chicken broth – a great substitute for added depth without alcohol.
- Garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- Onion – adds sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Parmesan cheese – for a nutty, salty finish that elevates the dish.
- Spinach – adds a pop of color and nutrition.
- Red pepper flakes – for a hint of heat, adjust to your taste.
- Olive oil – used for sautéing and adds a fruity flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious creamy sausage pasta that will warm your heart!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect your ingredients: pasta of choice, chicken or turkey sausage, heavy cream, garlic, onion, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken or turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Stir in minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Toss in the Spinach
Add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Serve
Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy sausage pasta!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Use Italian chicken sausage for a flavorful twist without the pork.
Opt for heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creaminess and depth of flavor.
Incorporate fresh spinach or kale for a pop of color and added nutrition.
Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness.
How to Serve
Serve your creamy sausage pasta with these delightful ideas:
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes on top before serving.
- Enjoy with a refreshing glass of sparkling water infused with lemon.
- Mix in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- For a fun twist, serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream.
• Stir frequently to maintain creaminess.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
What type of sausage works best for creamy sausage pasta?
Italian chicken or turkey sausage is a great choice for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly for the best flavor!
Can I make creamy sausage pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Just combine them when you’re ready to serve. This makes it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners!
How can I make the sauce even creamier?
For an extra creamy sauce, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. You can also stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. This will still give you a creamy texture without the extra calories!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new go-to recipe for creamy sausage pasta! It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something truly delightful. So grab your apron, whip up this creamy goodness, and savor every bite. Enjoy the comfort and joy this dish brings to your table!
creamy sausage pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large pot For boiling pasta.
- 1 Large skillet For sautéing ingredients.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb Italian sausage Adds a savory, hearty flavor.
Pasta
- 8 oz Pasta Choose your favorite type.
Sauce
- 1 cup Heavy cream Creates a rich, creamy sauce.
- 1 cup Chicken broth For added depth.
Aromatics
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
- 1 medium Onion Chopped for sweetness.
Vegetables
- 2 cups Spinach Fresh, adds nutrition.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes For heat, adjust to taste.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing.
Finishing Touch
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated, for serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect your ingredients: pasta of choice, chicken or turkey sausage, heavy cream, garlic, onion, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Sausage
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken or turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Toss in the Spinach
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Serve
- Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy sausage pasta!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Fat | 30g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 60g |
