Description
Indulgent Smoked Sausage Pasta brings Italian-inspired comfort straight to kitchen tables. Savory sausage, rich cream, and perfectly al dente pasta create a quick, satisfying meal that will delight your palate with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
Pasta and Base:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, searing smoked sausage slices until golden brown edges develop, then transfer to a separate plate.
- Using the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, allowing the liquid to reach a gentle simmer and create a smooth base.
- Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika, whisking continuously until the cheese melts completely and sauce transforms into a velvety consistency.
- Reintroduce seared sausage to the skillet, then fold in fresh spinach leaves, stirring until greens wilt and become tender.
- Gently fold cooked pasta into the creamy mixture, ensuring each pasta piece is thoroughly coated with the rich sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavors, then serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Choose gluten-free penne for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious pasta dish.
- Swap smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or grilled chicken for diverse dietary preferences and protein options.
- Reduce heavy cream calories by using half-and-half or Greek yogurt, maintaining creamy texture while cutting fat content.
- Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition, but frozen spinach works perfectly when fresh isn’t available, offering convenience without compromising flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg