Creamy Penne with Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a quick and delicious meal that's perfect for busy evenings. You'll brown Italian sausage, add sun-dried tomatoes, and create a rich, creamy sauce with heavy cream and chicken broth. Toss in fresh spinach for added nutrition and color. Top it all off with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This dish is not just easy to make; there's even more to discover about customizing and serving it.
History
When you explore the history of Creamy Penne With Sausage, you'll find it rooted in traditional Italian cooking, especially the rustic style of Tuscany.
This dish highlights the use of sausage, a staple in Italian cuisine, often seasoned to enhance its flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes, which date back to ancient times, add a rich, tangy element that complements the creamy sauce.
The penne pasta, known for its tubular shape, originated in Campania and excels at holding sauces, making it a perfect choice for this creamy delight.
The creamy sauce reflects Northern Italian cooking, where richer flavors reign supreme, contrasting with the tomato-based sauces more common in the South.
Together, these elements create a delicious homage to Tuscan culinary style. Additionally, the use of seasoned sausage in this dish mirrors the significance of meat in various African cuisines, such as the spicy Zigni stew from Eritrea.
Recipe
Creamy Penne With Sausage is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the creaminess of heavy cream. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes. With the addition of fresh spinach, this dish not only tastes great but also offers a burst of color and nutrition.
To prepare this creamy delight, you'll start by browning the Italian sausage, which adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Then, you'll sauté onions and garlic until they're fragrant and golden. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce made with heavy cream and chicken broth. Toss in cooked penne pasta and spinach, and you have a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Cooking instructions: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Once browned, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the spinach and cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Extra tips: For added flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or substitute the spinach with kale or another leafy green.
This dish also reheats beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for leftovers. Just remember to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months! Additionally, incorporating inflation protection strategies in your financial planning can ensure you enjoy meals like this without worrying about rising costs in the future.
Cooking Steps
To make your creamy penne with sausage, you'll start by cooking the pasta until it's al dente.
Next, sauté the sausage until it's browned and mix in the sun-dried tomatoes and cream for that rich flavor.
Finally, stir in fresh spinach and serve your dish topped with grated Parmesan for an irresistible finish.
Step 1. Cook Pasta Until Al Dente
Cooking pasta to al dente perfection is essential for your creamy penne dish. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Once boiling, add your penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes, for that perfect al dente texture.
Remember, al dente means the pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite, ensuring it holds up well when mixed with the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
A minute or two before the cooking time ends, taste a piece to check for doneness.
Don't forget to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; it'll help adjust the sauce's thickness later, especially with sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 2. Sauté Sausage Until Browned
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add 1 pound of bulk sweet Italian sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the sausage for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's nicely browned and cooked through. Make certain there are no pink areas remaining, as this guarantees it's fully done.
If you notice excess grease in the skillet, drain it off to keep the dish lighter. For extra flavor, consider adding some seasoning or herbs while the sausage cooks; this will enhance the overall taste of your dish.
Once browned, your sausage will be ready to combine with other ingredients for a delicious creamy penne. Enjoy the savory aroma as it fills your kitchen!
Step 3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream
Next, add 3/4 cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the browned sausage. Stir them in and let them warm through for about a minute to enhance their flavor.
Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Cook the sauce for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Once thickened, you'll incorporate baby spinach into the sauce until it wilts, adding both nutrition and color.
Finally, stir in grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of creaminess and flavor. Now you're ready to combine the sauce with the cooked pasta for a delicious meal!
Step 4. Stir in Fresh Spinach
After mixing in the grated Parmesan cheese, it's time to bring in the fresh spinach.
Stir in a generous handful of baby spinach right after adding the heavy cream. This guarantees the spinach wilts perfectly, maintaining its vibrant color and boosting the dish's nutritional content.
In just a couple of minutes, you'll see the spinach soften and blend into the creamy sauce, making your creamy penne with sausage and sun-dried tomatoes even more delightful.
This quick addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds vitamins A and C, along with iron. Additionally, spinach is rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium, further enhancing the health benefits of this comforting dish.
Enjoy this comforting dish, knowing that you've incorporated a healthy element into your indulgent comfort food!
Step 5. Serve With Grated Parmesan
This nutty and salty cheese enhances the dish's flavor, making every bite more satisfying. For the best results, opt for freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts beautifully and integrates seamlessly into the sauce. You can adjust the amount of grated Parmesan based on your taste preferences—some might enjoy a stronger cheesy flavor. Consider serving additional grated Parmesan on the side to allow for customization, letting each guest sprinkle as much as they like. Incorporating this cheese not only boosts the flavor but also enriches the texture, transforming your creamy penne into a truly delightful meal. Additionally, pairing it with a side of nutrient-rich tomato soup can create a balanced and satisfying dining experience.
Final Thoughts
While whipping up a delicious meal can sometimes feel overwhelming, this Creamy Penne With Sausage recipe proves that you can enjoy a gourmet experience in your own kitchen without spending hours cooking.
In just under 30 minutes, you can create an easy pasta recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, rich with heavy cream and parmesan, pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes.
Adding spinach not only enhances the dish's heartiness but also boosts its nutritional value. Serving approximately 4-5 people, this meal is ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.
Plus, it's easy to double for larger groups. You'll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely, you can use a different type of pasta!
While the dish may have a specific texture or flavor with penne, feel free to experiment with other shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti.
Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary, so adjust accordingly.
The key is to find a pasta that you enjoy and that complements the sauce well.
Don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!
Is This Dish Suitable for Meal Prep?
Did you know that 60% of home cooks prefer meal prepping for a week's worth of dinners?
This dish is definitely suitable for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it reheats well.
Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge, and it'll stay fresh for up to four days.
When you're ready to eat, simply reheat and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal without the hassle!
How Can I Make It Vegetarian?
To make a dish vegetarian, you can swap out meat for plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, or tofu.
Use a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to add flavor and texture.
Replace any cheese with dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Finally, guarantee your sauces are free from animal products, and you'll have a delicious vegetarian meal that satisfies everyone!
What Wine Pairs Well With This Dish?
When you're choosing a wine to pair with creamy pasta dishes, opt for a white wine that complements the richness.
A Chardonnay, especially one that's lightly oaked, brings out the creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works well, balancing the dish's textures.
Always remember to serve the wine chilled for the best experience.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to enhance your meal!
Can I Freeze Leftovers, and for How Long?
If leftovers are like treasures, you'll want to keep them safe! Yes, you can definitely freeze your leftovers.
Just make sure they're cooled down first, and store them in airtight containers. They'll stay fresh for about three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat. You'll savor that delicious flavor once more, as if it was just made!
