Creamy Spinach Sausage Pasta 🍝🌿

This hearty and comforting dish beautifully marries succulent sausage with creamy spinach sauce and pasta. It's rich in flavor and sure to impress your family and friends! Perfect for cozy dinners, this creamy spin on a classic will leave everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty garlic bread for a balanced meal! 🥗🍞

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 8 oz (about 225g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

For the creamy sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 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. Drain and reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sausage:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).

3. Build the Flavor:

   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
   • Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

   • Pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
   • Mix in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. If the sauce gets too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine and Serve:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the creamy sausage and spinach sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.

🍽️ Feel free to adjust the creaminess by adding more or less cream, and don't hesitate to layer in flavors with more cheese or spices!

6. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Serve warm, topped with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions. The cooking time may vary, so be sure to check the package for details! 🌾🚫
• Chicken or Turkey: Swap the sausage for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option! Add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor! 🐔
• Veggie-loaded: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more veggies! Just sauté them along with the sausage. 🍄🥒
• Spicy twist: For a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce!

No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Spinach Sausage Pasta is bound to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy! 🎉🍽️