Italian Sausage Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish made with Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach that transports you back to family gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 8 ounces Rigatoni pasta Cook according to package instructions
- 1 pound Italian sausage Can be sliced or crumbled
- 1 cup Sundried tomatoes Adds flavor and color
- 2 cups Fresh spinach Wilts down when cooked
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor
- 1 cup Heavy cream Provides creaminess
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese Adds richness and flavor
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For cooking the sausage
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to your liking
- for garnish Fresh basil Optional, for presentation
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Cooking the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the Italian sausage for 5-7 minutes.
Sautéing Flavors
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in sundried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach has wilted.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, gently tossing to coat.
Final Touches
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve hot in big bowls.
Notes
For a spicier version, try using hot Italian sausage or add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for variation. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
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