Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta
User Reviews
4.8
-
Prep Time
10 mins
-
Cook Time
15 mins
-
Total Time
25 mins
-
Servings
6 servings
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Italian
Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta
Description
This recipe starts by cooking rigatoni pasta and setting it aside. Italian sausage is browned separately, providing savory meat flavor and texture. A sauce is created in the same pan by simmering heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, thickened and infused with garlic powder, crushed red pepper, and rosemary, which can be fresh or replaced by dried Italian herbs. The spinach is added toward the end to wilt gently without overcooking.
The combination yields a creamy, comforting pasta where the sausage's richness contrasts with the tender greens. The herbs and spices add depth, and the Parmesan enriches the sauce with umami. This dish serves well for a satisfying meal that balances meat, greens, and pasta.
Rosemary is optional and can be substituted with other dried Italian seasonings to suit tastes or ingredient availability. The creamy sauce holds the ingredients together, making it a cohesive plate worth serving immediately.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta or short pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage ground
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 /2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 teaspoon rosemary see note, chopped fresh; or dried Italian seasonings
- 2 cups spinach or escarole, leaves
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, brown the sausage until no longer pink. Remove from pan.
- Add the cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, red pepper, and rosemary to the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes or until mixture is desired thickness. Add the spinach back to the pan for a few minutes to wilt down. Add the sausage back into the cream.
- Add the pasta in the pan (if your saucepan is big enough) or combine in a large swerving bowl.
Notes
- Fresh rosemary adds the recommended flavor, but dried Italian seasoning is a fine substitute.
- Do not overcook spinach; add it toward the end to wilt briefly.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1grams |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
You'll Also Love
