What kind of sausage is best for Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?

Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, is a great choice for Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it while cooking for even distribution of flavor.

Can I use frozen spinach in Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the sauce to prevent a watery pasta dish.

What's the best type of pasta to use for Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?

Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle are excellent choices for Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta because their shape allows them to capture the sauce and sausage. However, any pasta you enjoy will work well.

How can I make Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta healthier?

You can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken or turkey sausage, and reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt to lighten the sauce. Also, adding more vegetables is always a plus!

Creamy Sausage Pasta: 7 Easy Secrets to Delicious Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Sausage & Spinach Pasta: The Easiest One-Pot Dinner!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth); 1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

This Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, Nonna-style! A quick and easy one-pot pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Add the olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a minute or two.
Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is thickened and creamy.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: sausage spinach pasta, creamy pasta, one pot pasta, weeknight meal