Description
Looking for a quick and satisfying meal packed with flavor? This Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta combines tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce with vibrant roasted red peppers and spinach. Ready in one pot and perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
- ¾ lb Italian sausage (380 grams)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¾ lb uncooked short pasta (340 grams, about 4 heaped cups)
- ¾ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage and Onion:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onion. Cook, breaking the sausage into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. - Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the flavors. - Create the Sauce Base:
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and chopped roasted red peppers. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. - Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well, cover, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente (about 12–15 minutes). - Incorporate Spinach and Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the cheese melts into the sauce. - Serve:
Dish up the creamy pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Sausage: Mild or spicy Italian sausage works well. Choose your preference based on your heat tolerance.
- Pasta: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli holds the sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Red Peppers: These add a smoky-sweet flavor. You can use fresh roasted peppers if preferred.
- Adjust Consistency: Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American