Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta

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Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta. This dish combines al dente pasta with savory Italian sausage, all coated in a luscious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach brings a perfect balance of tanginess and earthiness, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, while the sausage adds a hearty, slightly spicy contrast. With the subtle sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of spinach, this dish is a restaurant-quality experience made right in your kitchen. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.

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Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any preferred pasta)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

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Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Spinach

Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts. This should take about 2 minutes.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta warm. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for the perfect finishing touch.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Based on a 6-serving recipe

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~40g
• Saturated Fat: ~18g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~900mg

Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute it with rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

2. What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) is ideal, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, though the flavor will be slightly different.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer or add more Parmesan cheese to enhance creaminess.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would complement the dish well. Sauté them before adding the sauce.

6. Is this recipe spicy?

Not necessarily. The red pepper flakes add heat, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.

7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, but sun-dried tomatoes add a unique, tangy depth of flavor. Fresh cherry or Roma tomatoes can be used as an alternative.

8. What can I serve with this pasta?

A side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments to this creamy dish.

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