Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

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Description:
Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish made with savory sausage, tender spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every bite of pasta. This comforting yet elegant dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients:

  • Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice): 12 oz (340 g)
  • Italian sausage (ground or removed from casing): 1 lb (450 g)
  • Fresh spinach: 4 cups (about 6 oz / 170 g)
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Parmesan cheese (grated): 1 cup (100 g)
  • Onion (chopped): 1 small
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): ½ tsp
  • Chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce): ½ cup (120 ml)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Brown the sausage:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the onions and garlic:
    In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add spinach:
    Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the spinach cook down.
  5. Make the creamy sauce:
    Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Combine everything:
    Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sausage mixture.
  7. Season:
    Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.
  8. Serve:
    Serve the creamy sausage and spinach pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Sausage options: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference. Turkey or chicken sausage can also be used as a leaner option.
  • Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk.

Recommendations:

  • Side dishes: Serve this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Freezing: This pasta is best served fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently after thawing in the refrigerator.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 550
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg

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