If you are looking for a pasta dish that bursts with rich flavors and creamy indulgence, the Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly combines hearty ground sausage, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and tender spinach in a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of penne pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe delivers a satisfying, comforting experience that brings the best of Tuscan-inspired flavors straight to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the savory sausage that adds boldness to the creamy sauce that creates decadence, and the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes that bring pops of color and brightness.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: A sturdy pasta shape to hold all the creamy sauce and ingredients perfectly.
- 1 pound ground sausage: Provides the dish’s meaty, savory base—choose your favorite flavor profile, spicy or mild.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the signature silky and rich texture of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and keeps the sauce from feeling too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbal flavors that complement the sausage and vegetables.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, offering a salty, nutty bite that elevates every mouthful.
- 2 cups chopped spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthy flavor that balances the richness.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Provides a vibrant burst of tangy sweetness, harmonizing with the creamy sauce perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta remains firm to the bite, providing the best texture when mixed with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside, ready to soak up all the flavors later on.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Next, heat up a large skillet and cook the ground sausage until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned. This step builds a flavorful base with those caramelized bits that add extra umami to your dish. After cooking, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for the next stage.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk these together over medium-high heat, letting the sauce thicken to a luscious consistency. This creamy blend is what makes this recipe so special, balancing richness with savory notes that make every forkful comforting and irresistible.
Step 4: Add Spinach, Tomatoes, and Sausage
Stir in the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the thickened sauce, allowing the spinach to wilt down and the tomatoes to infuse the sauce with their sweet and tangy character. Return the cooked sausage to the pan, then add the pasta. Toss everything together to combine and heat through, ensuring every piece is coated with that delightful creamy goodness.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top and add a few torn fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley to brighten up the dish. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also enhance the freshness and add a lovely final touch to your creamy masterpiece.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A slice of warm, crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of the scrumptious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in individual bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like a little heat. Alternatively, dish it out family-style in a beautiful serving platter, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the communal comfort of this hearty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop more, making it even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of fresh spinach might change slightly after freezing, but the overall flavor remains delicious.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir occasionally to reheat evenly and revive that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap ground pork sausage with turkey, chicken, or even a spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Just adjust seasoning if needed to keep the balance of flavors.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you want a lighter version, you can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce may not be as thick and rich as with heavy cream.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version while keeping all the other creamy, flavorful elements intact.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer a little longer while whisking frequently to reduce it, or add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese gradually to help thicken it up.
What pasta shapes work best for this dish?
Penne is ideal because its tube shape holds the creamy sauce so well, but rigatoni, rotini, or even farfalle could be delightful alternatives that cling to the sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Cook up this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe whenever you want a meal that feels both indulgent and effortlessly delicious. It’s packed with comforting flavors and comforting textures that will surely win over everyone at your table. Give it a try and make it one of your new favorite go-to dishes for family dinners or special occasions!
Print
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish featuring tender penne pasta tossed in a flavorful sauce made with Italian sausage, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or casual dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
Sausage and Sauce
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Vegetables
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Cook Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
- Prepare Sauce: Using the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously over medium-high heat until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Finish Dish: Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce and simmer until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Finally, add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together until heated through and evenly coated with the sauce.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use low-fat sausage.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil will add more flavor but can be drained for a lower-fat option.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best for melting and flavor.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
