I stumbled upon this creamy sausage pasta recipe during a spontaneous weekend cooking spree, and let me tell you, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. The way the rich sauce clings to the pasta—it’s practically an art form. Picture this:
savory sausage, tender spinach, and a hint of garlic all mingling together to create something truly magical. You know those meals that make you forget about everything else for a moment? Yeah, this is one of them.
Steps
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water following the package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, minced onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Cook the sausage mixture until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if needed and return the meat mixture to the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and pour the cream into the skillet, allowing it to simmer. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet along with the shredded parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, minced
- 2 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
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of penne?
- Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, such as fusilli or rigatoni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or add more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to still enjoy a flavorful meal.
- Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can make the pasta ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain its creamy texture.
- What can I use if I don’t have fresh parmesan cheese?
- If fresh parmesan isn’t available, you can use grated parmesan or even a mix of other hard cheeses like pecorino romano for a slightly different flavor.
- Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
- To increase the spice level, add more red pepper flakes or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking the sausage.
Tips
- Use fresh parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess in your sauce. Grating it yourself will ensure it melts smoothly into the dish.
- To save time, start cooking your sausage and preparing the sauce while the pasta is boiling. This multitasking can help you have dinner ready in just 20 minutes.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- After wilting the spinach, ensure you stir the pasta thoroughly into the sauce to evenly coat every piece with the creamy mixture.
Equipment
- Large Pot – for boiling pasta
- Large Skillet – for cooking sausage and sauce
- Colander – to drain pasta
