Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This easy Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of savory sausage, the creaminess of a luscious sauce, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal, this pasta recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, its comforting flavors make it an ideal go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a delicious meal in no time.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Pair with your favorite salad and bread for a complete meal or customize with additional vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is loved by both kids and adults, making it great for family dinners.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing vegetables; it ensures even cooking.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot allows the pasta to cook evenly without sticking together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Sausage:

• 1 lb uncased Italian Sausage, sweet or mild (If you cannot find the uncased version, you can remove the casing yourself.)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced shallots
• 4 cloves, diced garlic
• 1 1/2 cups packed julienne sun dried tomatoes, drained of any oil and lightly rinsed
• 3/4 cup dry white apple vinegar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt

For Serving:

• 2/3 cup fresh Asiago cheese
• 2 cups packed fresh spinach
• If desired, additional coarse sea salt, fresh cracked pepper, fresh thyme, fresh basil, and Asiago to serve.

For Pasta:

• Water for a large pot
• About 2 tsp of coarse sea salt for the pasta
• 1 lb short cut pasta

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pan on the stove over medium flame. Add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned. Remove from pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Wipe out the pan, keeping any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While browning sausage, heat salted water in another pot. Once boiling, add noodles. Cook according to package directions until al dente.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In the same pan used for sausage, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium flame until shimmering. Add shallots; cook for 3 minutes while stirring regularly. Add garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes; continue cooking for about 3 more minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in white apple vinegar. Scrape brown bits from the bottom to deglaze the pan. Allow apple vinegar to reduce by half before adding heavy cream. Mix well then add fresh thyme and salt. Simmer sauce on low heat for about 4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Cheese and Sausage

Gently mix in Asiago cheese over low heat until melted. Return sausage to sauce; simmer together for another 3-5 minutes. Gradually fold in spinach one cup at a time until wilted.

Step 6: Mix with Pasta

Once spinach has wilted, combine cooked pasta with sauce mixture gently.

To serve, top with additional fresh thyme, coarse sea salt, cracked pepper to taste, and optional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delightful Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Serving Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will help you impress your guests and enjoy this delicious dish to the fullest.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
• Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of thyme not only enhance the presentation but also add aromatic notes.

Pair with Crispy Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the sauce and soaking up every bit of flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings freshness with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Offer Cheese Options

• Grated Parmesan: Provide freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want extra cheesiness.
• Asiago Crumbles: Serve crumbled Asiago cheese to enhance the dish’s flavors further.

How to Perfect Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Achieving perfection in Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutrients.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain texture and prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Deglaze Properly: Make sure to scrape up the brown bits while deglazing; they add depth to your sauce’s flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the sauce to simmer gently after adding cream for optimal thickness without curdling.
• Mix Carefully: Fold in spinach carefully to avoid overcooking; it should just wilt before serving.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking, ensuring that your final dish is perfectly flavored.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic adds a flavorful touch.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance and bright color on your plate.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil is a delightful appetizer option.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes for an enticing starter.
6. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies adds fiber and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls in the kitchen can make your cooking experience smoother and your dish even more delicious. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when making Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta.

• Skipping the sausage browning: Not browning the sausage can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to brown it well for better taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely and test for al dente texture.
• Ignoring the deglazing step: Forgetting to deglaze the pan can mean missing out on those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Always scrape them up with your liquid to enhance your sauce.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can make the dish bland. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking, especially before serving.
• Adding spinach too early: Adding spinach too soon may cause it to overcook and lose its vibrant color. Fold it in just before serving for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta that may help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Absolutely! Replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all components separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

What sides pair well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments to balance out this rich dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you customize it with different proteins or add extra veggies, it’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Give this recipe a try today!