Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a warm and comforting dish filled with yummy flavors. Juicy sausage, creamy sauce, and fresh veggies come together for a real treat!
This pasta is my go-to for cozy dinner nights. It’s quick to make and pairs perfectly with a side salad. Plus, you’ll want to lick the plate clean! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): This shape holds the sauce well, but you can swap it for any pasta you prefer, like penne or fusilli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the pasta you choose.
Italian Sausage: For a spicy kick, use hot Italian sausage. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Plant-based sausage is a great alternative for vegetarians.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, use diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. Both work well in this dish!
Fresh Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach. If you’re in a pinch, frozen spinach will also work; just make sure to drain it well.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Sausage?
Cooking the sausage correctly is key to getting that rich flavor into your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat; you want it hot enough to sear the sausage but not burn it.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sausage. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces for even cooking.
- Cook until all the pieces are browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Don’t rush this step! The browning adds a lot of depth to the flavor of the final dish.
With these tips and insights, you’re ready to make a delicious Tuscan Sausage Pasta. Enjoy every bite!
Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Tuscan Sausage Pasta will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep work and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Fry it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pan with the sausage. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma!
4. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want them to blister and soften up, releasing their juices for the sauce.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Give everything a good stir and let it come to a gentle simmer. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
6. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts, which should only take about 2 minutes.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Once the spinach is wilted, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta is coated in that creamy sauce and all the flavors blend beautifully.
8. Finish with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding richness and flavor.
9. Serve:
Dish up the pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Tuscan Sausage Pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute for a healthier option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions since whole wheat pasta can take a bit longer to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well and adds a slight sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost flavor and texture.
