Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta 

Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of hearty sausage and creamy sauce creates a satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. 

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
  
  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
  

• 1 pound Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed)
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  
  

• 1 cup chicken broth
  
  

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  
  

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  
  

• 2 cups heavy cream
  
  

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• 2 cups baby spinach
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
   
   

2. Brown the sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
   
   

3. Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
   
   

4. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   
   

5. Incorporate cream and cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
   
   

6. Add spinach and sausage: Stir in the baby spinach and cooked sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through.
   
   

7. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
   
   

8. Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with torn fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 923 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 58 g
  
  

• Protein: 32 g
  
  

• Fat: 61 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 22 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 122 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 1,100 mg
  
  

• Fiber: 3 g
  
  

• Sugar: 5 g