There is something incredibly comforting and utterly delicious about the Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of Italian sausage with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a dish to impress friends, this recipe is a brilliant balance of hearty textures and bold flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this pasta just right is all about simple, quality ingredients that each play a key role—bringing layers of taste, inviting textures, and vibrant colors to your plate.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape; these hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps brown the sausage evenly.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): The star protein, bursting with herbs and spices.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the dish.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped): Adds a concentrated, sweet, and tangy punch.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs tying flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle kick, if you like some heat.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For the silky, dreamy sauce that coats every bite.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and lightens the cream just enough.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, it enriches the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional): A fresh, vibrant green boost and a nice contrast in texture.
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional): Bright herbal notes to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne or fettuccine until al dente—this means tender but still with a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce later and ensures a silky, cohesive finish.
Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown beautifully, turning into small, flavorful crumbles that form the meaty foundation of your pasta. This caramelization step is crucial for building rich, deep flavor.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Once the sausage is cooked through, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just for about a minute until fragrant—never let it burn! Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and if you’re up for some heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. This vibrant mix is what really sets this dish apart.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to start thickening—this is where the magic starts to happen.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Add your grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. This step is essential, as the cheese adds a savory richness and helps thicken the sauce to cling to the pasta perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Wilted Spinach
Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet and toss to coat every piece in that creamy, flavorful sauce. If using, stir in the baby spinach and cook just until it wilts, keeping that fresh, green pop in your bowl. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up just right.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for that final burst of aroma and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting celebration of creamy, meaty, tangy, and fresh all in one bite.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh basil or even a little extra Parmesan cheese right before serving not only adds color but lifts the flavors with a bright herbal and salty finish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a lovely sheen and a hint of richness.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts also make an excellent accompaniment for a well-rounded, hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls or on rustic wooden platters to emphasize its comforting and homey vibe. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few sun-dried tomatoes on top can add texture and a pop of color that makes the dish even more inviting at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
While freezing this creamy pasta is possible, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after thawing. If you choose to freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure it heats evenly and stays creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly version, though adjustments in cooking times might be needed.
Is there a dairy-free way to make the sauce?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful without dairy.
Can I prepare this pasta in advance for meal prep?
Definitely. You can cook the sausage and sauce ahead of time, then combine with cooked pasta just before serving for quick reheating. Just keep the spinach separate until the final step to preserve freshness.
What pasta type works best with this sauce?
Penne and fettuccine are fantastic because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, but feel free to experiment with other pasta like rigatoni or farfalle for varied textures.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes provide a gentle heat that complements the richness of the cream and sausage without being overwhelming. You can easily adjust or omit them depending on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table with its heartwarming flavors and satisfying creaminess. I encourage you to try it soon—you might find it becoming your go-to recipe for a cozy dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.
Print
Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
A rich and flavorful Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta combining savory Italian sausage, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce tossed with tender pasta and optional fresh spinach for a satisfying, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Flavorings: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly reduce.
- Incorporate Cheese and Season: Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat well in the sauce. Stir in baby spinach if using and cook until just wilted. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve the pasta warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Pair this hearty pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
