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
Scale
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.
