Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a dream come true for anyone who believes that comfort food should be both rich and satisfying. Imagine twirling forkfuls of creamy pasta, coated in a luscious sauce bursting with flavor, while the aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that sings to your soul and tickles your taste buds.
Now, let’s talk about the memories this recipe conjures. Picture a cozy Sunday evening, family gathered around the table, laughter mingling with the savory scents of garlic and herbs. You can almost hear the forks clinking against plates as everyone savors each delightful bite. This is ideal for those moments when you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in something amazing after a long day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy Tuscan sausage pasta delivers comfort in every bite while being super easy to whip up.
- The rich flavor profile combines savory sausage with vibrant veggies for a colorful dish.
- It’s visually appealing, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
- Plus, you can customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Italian Chicken Sausage: Opt for mild or spicy chicken sausage based on your preference. It’s packed with flavor and adds a hearty touch. For more inspiration, check out this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe.
- Penne Pasta: This pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Choose whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and nutrients while wilting perfectly into the sauce as it cooks.
- Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess that makes this dish so comforting. You may substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little gems offer a punch of flavor and sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor—don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for the best taste and meltability. Nutritional yeast can be used as an alternative for a vegan option.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme will elevate your sauce to new heights.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced Italian chicken sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Base
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Add dried herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently until well combined, allowing flavors to meld for about two minutes.
Step 6: Serve Up
Transfer servings onto plates or bowls and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that final touch of indulgence.
Enjoy this creamy Tuscan sausage pasta hot from the stove—it’s comfort food at its finest!
You Must Know
- This creamy Tuscan sausage pasta is not just about taste; it’s a canvas waiting for your culinary creativity.
- With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this dish transforms any ordinary dinner into a delightful experience.
- Perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a large skillet until golden brown. While that sizzles, cook your pasta separately. As the pasta nears completion, create the sauce in the same skillet, combining all those delicious flavors for an unforgettable meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in turkey or beef sausage for a twist on flavor! You can also add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the taste even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy and prevent drying out. Microwave or heat on the stove until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to season your chicken well before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Always reserve some pasta cooking water; it adds creaminess to your sauce.
- Don’t rush the sauce; letting it simmer deepens the flavors beautifully.
This recipe brings back memories of hosting a cozy dinner party where friends were raving about how delicious it was! Nothing beats hearing them say they’ll come back for seconds—talk about a cooking win!
FAQs:
What can I use instead of pork in Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
You can easily substitute pork with ground chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey. These alternatives maintain the dish’s robust flavor while accommodating different dietary preferences. For a lighter option, ground turkey is an excellent choice. One Pan Chicken Noodles Each of these proteins pairs well with the creamy sauce and savory ingredients typical of Tuscan cuisine, ensuring your dish remains delicious and satisfying.
How do I make a vegetarian version of Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
To create a vegetarian version of Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta, replace the meat with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for added texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and incorporate more vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for flavor. Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken For creaminess, opt for coconut milk or cashew cream. This way, you maintain the comforting essence of the dish while keeping it entirely plant-based.
Can I prepare Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta in advance! Cook the pasta and sauce separately, allowing both to cool before storing them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, combine them and heat gently on the stovetop. This will help preserve the freshness and flavors without compromising on quality. It’s a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
What sides go well with Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta enhances your meal experience. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Garlic bread is also a popular choice; its crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce For those looking for something heartier, roasted vegetables offer a delicious balance to your plate.
Conclusion for Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta:
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in one delightful dish. By using alternatives to pork and alcohol, this recipe remains accessible for diverse dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta The addition of fresh ingredients like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes elevates this meal further. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or during special occasions, this pasta recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!

Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a delectable comfort food that combines savory Italian chicken sausage with a rich, creamy sauce and vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Impress your family or guests with this easy-to-make recipe that brings the flavors of Tuscany right to your table.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz Italian chicken sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté sliced sausage until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for one minute until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Stir in dried herbs and season with salt and pepper.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the pasta; toss until evenly coated and heated through (about two minutes).
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 370g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize this dish by substituting turkey sausage or adding more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. For a lighter version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.