Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

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Description:
Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines savory sausage with fresh spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. This one-pan recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

  • Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice): 12 oz (340 g)
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp
  • Italian sausage (casings removed, mild or spicy): 1 lb (450 g)
  • Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Chicken broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
  • Fresh spinach: 4 cups (about 120 g)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g)
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): ¼ tsp
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta:
    In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the sausage:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté garlic:
    Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Make the creamy sauce:
    Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Add spinach:
    Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the sauce, about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Combine with pasta:
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Serve:
    Plate the creamy sausage and spinach pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Sausage choice: Use your favorite type of sausage—Italian sausage works best, but you can try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
  • Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Recommendations:

  • Serving suggestions: This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream for a less rich sauce.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg

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