Cozy evenings call for comfort food that wraps you like a warm blanket—enter, creamy Italian sausage pasta. It’s like the culinary equivalent of binge-watching your favorite series, each bite pulling you deeper into its rich, savory narrative. I swear, it’s almost like the pasta itself is whispering cozy secrets, mingling the earthy aroma of sausage with the soft embrace of cream, making every forkful feel like a small victory against the chill outside.
Steps
- Boil penne pasta in a large pot of salted water, following the instructions on the package.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add Italian sausage, minced onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking until the sausage is browned. Drain any excess grease if needed and return the sausage mixture to the skillet.
- Lower the heat, pour in the cream, and bring it to a simmer. Add the spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes until wilted.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet along with shredded parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Serve immediately for a delicious, creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 minced onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
FAQ
- How long does it take to prepare the Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta?
- This pasta dish can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight meal.
- What ingredients are needed for the Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta?
- You will need penne pasta, Italian sausage, olive oil, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, cream, spinach, and shredded parmesan cheese.
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute penne with other types of pasta, but cooking times may vary depending on the type you choose.
- Is it possible to make this dish healthier?
- You can make a lighter version by using a reduced-fat cream and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
- If the sauce becomes too thick, you can gradually add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Tips
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged options. It melts more smoothly into the sauce, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish.
- Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Ensure your penne pasta is cooked to an al dente texture to maintain a pleasant bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference for spice. Start with a small amount and add more if you enjoy a spicier kick.
- Wilt Spinach Gently: Allow the spinach to wilt slowly over low heat once added to the cream. This helps retain its nutrients and ensures it blends well into the sauce without overcooking.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – A good quality large skillet for cooking the sausage and sauce.
- Large Pot – For boiling pasta, especially if you don’t have one big enough to accommodate the pasta comfortably.
