Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta – The Ultimate Summer Pasta

A Rich and Flavorful Summer Pasta You’ll Make on Repeat

Creamy, savory, and bursting with sun-kissed Mediterranean flavors, this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is the ultimate summer pasta recipe. With its perfectly seasoned sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic-infused cream sauce, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for warm evenings when you crave comfort without heaviness.

Ingredients

Let’s dive into everything you’ll need to bring this luscious pasta dish to life.

For the Pasta:

• 400g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta

• Salt for pasta water

the Tuscan Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 400g (14 oz) Italian sausage (casings removed)

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

• 100g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Strainer or colander

• Grater (for Parmesan)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Remove any excess fat if needed, but leave a bit for flavor.

3. Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion to the same pan and cook for 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Let them cook with the aromatics for 1–2 minutes to deepen their flavor.

5. Create the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

6. Melt in Parmesan

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. This adds creaminess and depth of flavor.

7. Add Spinach and Pasta

Fold in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.

8. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with torn basil and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Summer Pasta

• Choose the right sausage: Mild or spicy Italian sausage both work. You can also try chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner twist.

• Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil: These are softer and more flavorful. If using dried ones, soak in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.

• Cream substitution: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt.

• Add a lemony twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish for an extra summer vibe.

• Make it vegetarian: Swap sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free variation.

• Batch cooking tip: This pasta keeps well for 2–3 days in the fridge. Just reheat gently with a splash of water or cream.

Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – serves 4)

Note: Nutritional content may vary based on brands and substitutions used.

Conclusion: A Creamy Pasta Made for Summer Evenings

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for yourself on a quiet evening, this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and Tuscan charm in every bite. It’s not just a weeknight dinner — it’s a dish that evokes the warmth of summer with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh greens, and comfort in a bowl.

Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta – The Ultimate Summer Pasta

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• Author: himami ali
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

Let’s dive into everything you’ll need to bring this luscious pasta dish to life.

For the Pasta:

• 400g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta

• Salt for pasta water

For the Tuscan Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 400g (14 oz) Italian sausage (casings removed)

• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

• 100g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: pasta