Sun-Dried Tomato & Sausage Pasta with Spinach
Rich, Flavorful, and Perfectly Balanced for Pasta Lovers
Inspired by traditional Italian cuisine, this Sun-Dried Tomato & Sausage Pasta with Spinach combines savory sausage, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and earthy spinach for a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Rich Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach Sausage Pasta – Easy 30-Minute Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Servings4
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Sausage & Spinach:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, (packed in oil), chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic,, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, (for sauteing)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta, (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
- fresh basil leaves, (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- 1
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set aside.
- 2
Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Add the Spinach:
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- 4
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and spinach mixture. Pour in the reserved pasta water, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine and create a creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- 5
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious one-pan sausage pasta!
Equipment
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Substitutions:
- Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner version of this dish.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegan version, try plant-based sausage and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
Pro Tips:
- If you want a thicker sauce, add a little more Parmesan cheese or cook the sauce a little longer to reduce it.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked sausage or pre-chopped spinach.
- For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when cooking the sausage.
FAQs:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While pasta dishes are typically best enjoyed fresh, you can make this in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
What if I don’t like spicy sausage?
- Feel free to use mild Italian sausage instead, and omit the red pepper flakes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce.
Nutrition
| Calories | 530 |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 15g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
The origins of sausage pasta dishes can be traced back to traditional Italian cooking, where sausage, a beloved ingredient, is paired with pasta in a variety of ways. This sun-dried tomato pasta version with spinach adds a rich and savory twist to the classic. The combination of Italian sausage with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the earthiness of spinach brings depth to each bite, making it an instant favorite for any pasta lover.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
Cooking sausage spinach pasta is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The sausage is cooked to perfection, releasing its rich, savory oils that infuse the other ingredients. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a burst of umami, and spinach wilts gently, creating a hearty, wholesome base. The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This easy sausage pasta is not just delicious, but incredibly versatile. It can be made with any type of sausage, making it customizable to your taste. Whether you opt for spicy sausage for a kick or leaner options like turkey sausage, it’s a dish that can easily adapt to your preferences. Additionally, the creamy sauce and fresh spinach create a balanced and satisfying meal that can easily feed a family.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Sausage: The heart of the dish, providing rich, savory flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adding a sweet, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the sausage.
- Spinach: Fresh and earthy, adding color and nutrition.
- Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti, forming the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Family Pasta Recipe: A great choice for a family-friendly dinner, loved by both adults and kids.
- 30-Minute Pasta Recipe: Ideal for busy weeknights when you want a quick yet satisfying dinner.
- Quick Pasta Dinner: Perfect for when you’re craving a flavorful pasta without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- One-Pan Meal: Since it all cooks in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This rich sausage pasta is perfect because it’s quick, creamy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a filling, delicious meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it ideal for different preferences and occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this pasta dish fits the bill.
