When you need a quick, satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes, this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is the answer. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, yet comes together in under 30 minutes.
This dish combines tender penne pasta with savory Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that’s cozy enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for a dinner party.
What Is Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is a rustic Italian-inspired dish featuring penne pasta, crumbled sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. The sausage adds savory richness, while the cream sauce keeps it luscious and comforting.
It’s like something you’d order at a cozy Italian trattoria only easier to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Bold, comforting flavors in every bite
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
What Does Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta Taste Like?
This pasta is creamy and savory with hints of garlic and Parmesan. The sausage provides meaty flavor with a touch of spice, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy note. The spinach adds freshness, balancing the richness of the cream sauce.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you go back for seconds—maybe even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or spatula
- Cheese grater
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
- Use turkey sausage for a lighter option
- Swap penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or any short pasta
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Lower the heat. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.
What to Serve with Tuscan Sausage Pasta
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A crisp green salad
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- A glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio
Tips for Success
- Use good quality Parmesan for the best flavor
- Don’t overcook the pasta—keep it al dente
- Add a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency
- For extra spice, use spicy Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Can I use plant-based sausage?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes—just use mild sausage and skip the red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is the kind of dish that brings people to the table fast. It’s rich, hearty, and full of bold Italian flavors—comfort food at its best. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 24g
Fat: 38g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 840mg
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta: A Comfort Food Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A quick and comforting pasta dish with Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Cook penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Lower heat. Add heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until melted.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Add pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
7. Garnish with basil or parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
– Swap sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter option.
– Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream if preferred.
– Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Keywords: tuscan sausage pasta, creamy sausage pasta, one pot pasta, easy pasta dinner, comfort food pasta, Italian sausage recipes
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