Creamy Sausage Pasta Recipe

A rich and flavorful dish, this Creamy Sausage Pasta combines savory sausage, roasted red peppers, and a velvety Parmesan sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Sausage, Peppers, and Pasta:

• 1 lb. Italian sausage (hot or sweet)
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes for substitutions)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 7 oz. jar roasted red peppers, drained (about 1 cup)
• 1 ½ cups spinach
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• ½ lb. rigatoni
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a large measuring cup with a spout, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
2. Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting.

Cook the Sausage:

1. Slice the sausage into ½-inch thick pieces.
2. Heat 6 tablespoons of water in a large, high-walled skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cover. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3. Remove the lid, increase the heat slightly, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Deglaze the Pan:

1. Drain excess grease from the skillet, leaving the browned bits behind.
2. Add the white wine, tomato paste, and garlic. Cook over medium heat, using a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to bubble and reduce by half, about 4 minutes.

Combine the Sauce:

1. Stir in the prepared sauce mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2. Add the roasted red peppers and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Let the sauce simmer, uncovered, while you cook the pasta.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Finish the Dish:

1. Reduce the sauce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until fully combined.
2. Add the spinach and the cooked sausage along with any juices from the plate. Stir until the spinach wilts.
3. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a luxurious sauce.
• Balanced Flavors: Roasted red peppers and spinach add freshness to the hearty sausage and pasta.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.

Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up better in the sauce.
• Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sausage: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Pasta: Substitute rigatoni with penne, farfalle, or fettuccine.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• No Wine: Replace white wine with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sausage in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Cream-based sauces may change in texture upon reheating, but the sauce can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for more heat.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair this dish with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
• Serve with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Pinot Noir.
• Top with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper for a finishing touch.

Creamy Sausage Pasta is a comforting and indulgent meal that’s sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors in every bite!