This Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a warm and comforting dish, full of flavors. It combines tasty sausage, rich tomatoes, and creamy cheese, all mixed with your favorite pasta to create a delightful meal.
It’s one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy Italian restaurant! I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a little extra zing. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape works great because it holds onto the sauce well. If you don’t have penne, any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or macaroni will work in a pinch!
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or hot sausage depending on your spice preference. For a lighter option, consider using turkey or chicken sausage; just keep in mind they may have less fat which affects the sauce’s creaminess.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even whole milk, but be aware that the sauce will be thinner. For dairy-free, try coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes are best for a sweet, juicy element. If you don’t have these, canned diced tomatoes are a good alternative; just drain some liquid to avoid a watery sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts down nicely, but you can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard. If you’re using kale, just be sure to cook it a bit longer for tenderness.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor with Garlic?
Garlic is a key flavor in this dish, so it’s important to sauté it correctly. Here’s how to get the best out of it:
- Minced garlic cooks quickly, so add it to the pan only after the sausage is browned. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Watch it closely! Garlic can burn fast, resulting in a bitter taste. If it starts to brown too much, it’s best to lower the heat.
What’s the Trick for a Creamy Sauce?
A creamy sauce is all about creating the right balance. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Gradually add the heavy cream to avoid splashes and ensure even mixing. Stir well.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta better!
- Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
How to Make Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For the Sausage and Sauce:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tuscan Sausage Pasta recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for company, making it a perfect go-to dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente (just tender but still firm). When done, drain the pasta, but save about a 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Sausage:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned and cooked through.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften and get juicy.
5. Add the Spinach:
Now, it’s time to add the fresh spinach leaves. Stir and cook until they wilt down, which should take just a couple of minutes.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, and then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs. Stir everything together until combined, and let the mixture simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. If you find that the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Combine the Pasta:
Carefully add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated in the creamy sausage sauce.
8. Season to Taste:
Give your dish a taste! Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Tuscan Sausage Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as it may take a bit longer to become tender.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with some added flour to thicken it up.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or other protein like lentils or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for added flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Tuscan Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little bit of cream or pasta water to bring back its creaminess if needed.