Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor together in a simple way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet filling. The smoky sausage combined with creamy sauce and fresh spinach creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it uses just a few ingredients, making it easy to whip up without much fuss!
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, drizzle in some olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Drop in your sliced sausage and cook until it gets a lovely golden brown.
- Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute—oh, that smell!
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Slowly stir in the heavy cream and let this dreamy mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts—this is where the color comes in!
- Gently mix in the cooked pasta and the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste—your dish is almost complete!
- Serve it warm and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite.
How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with extra parmesan cheese or some fresh herbs for added flavor. A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta, making it a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up since it may thicken when cold.
Tips to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
- Cook the pasta just until al dente; it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
For a spicy kick, consider using spicy smoked sausage or adding red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. You can also swap the spinach for kale or broccoli for a different taste and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini or rigatoni.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the smoked sausage with vegetarian sausage or even chickpeas for a protein boost.
3. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta, reduced-fat cream, and increase the amount of vegetables added.
Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach fresh, can be substituted with kale or broccoli
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated additional for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking the sausage
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, drizzle olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cooking
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Gently mix in the cooked pasta and grated parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.