Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This easy Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The savory sausage paired with sun-dried tomatoes adds a unique twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor Combination: The blend of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite pasta or adjust the ingredients to cater to your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners, special celebrations, or potlucks, this recipe fits every event.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the comforting flavors of this creamy pasta dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

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 creating a flavorful base for your sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of your short-cut pasta while allowing enough space for it to move freely.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all ingredients combine well.

Ingredients

For the Sausage and Sauce

• 1 lb uncased Italian Sausage, sweet or mild (You can remove the casing if needed.)
• 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 Mixing In

• 2/3 cup fresh Asiago cheese
• 2 cups packed fresh spinach

For Serving (Optional)

• Additional coarse sea salt
• Fresh cracked pepper
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh basil
• Fresh Asiago

For Cooking the Pasta

• Water for boiling
• About 2 tsp of coarse sea salt
• 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:
1. Brown the sausage until fully cooked.
2. Remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess grease.
3. Wipe out the pan to remove any remaining grease while keeping the tasty bits at the bottom.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While cooking the sausage:
1. Bring salted water to a boil in another pot.
2. Once boiling, add your short-cut pasta.
3. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

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

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add white apple vinegar to deglaze:
1. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Allow vinegar to reduce by half before adding heavy cream.
3. Mix well; then add fresh thyme and salt.
4. Let sauce simmer on low heat for about 4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gently incorporate Asiago cheese:
1. Stir over low heat until melted into the sauce.
2. Return browned Italian sausage back into the sauce; simmer for another 3-5 minutes.
3. Fold in spinach one cup at a time until wilted.
4. Mix in cooked pasta until evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

To enhance flavor:
1. Top with additional fresh thyme, coarse sea salt, and cracked pepper if desired.
2. You can also garnish with fresh basil for added freshness.

Now enjoy your deliciously 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. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also visually appealing. Here are some delicious serving ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for a fragrant touch.
• Chopped Parsley: Brighten the dish and add a fresh note with parsley on top.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect complement to the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette helps soak up the delicious sauce.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that pairs well with pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrients, making your meal more balanced.

Include a Simple Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Perfecting this dish ensures each bite is as delicious as possible. Follow these tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Use High-Quality Sausage: Select fresh Italian sausage for better flavor and texture in your pasta dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is al dente for the ideal bite and to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: When adding vinegar, scrape all the browned bits from the pan to maximize flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings at each stage to create a perfectly balanced dish.
• Add Spinach Last: Fold in spinach just before serving to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Enhancing your meal with complementary side dishes can make it even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any pasta dish perfectly; it’s easy to prepare by spreading garlic butter on slices of bread and toasting them until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese creates a refreshing contrast to creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a refreshing taste that balances richness.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides essential vitamins while adding crunch to your meal; simply steam until bright green.
6. Italian Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and crackers makes for an inviting starter or side dish that enhances flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta types hold sauce well. Choose short-cut pasta for the best texture and flavor absorption.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to deglaze the pan can lead to a bland sauce. Always scrape up those brown bits for added depth.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can make it mushy. Fold it in just until wilted for the best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient brings its own flavor. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
• Not letting the sauce simmer: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from melding. Allow at least four minutes of low heat for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best eaten within 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for Italian sausage in Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

You can use ground turkey or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative that still provides great flavor.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While Asiago is delicious, you can also try Parmesan or even a creamy mozzarella for a different taste profile.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for texture and flavor.

Can I prepare Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the sauce and store it separately from the pasta, combining them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of creamy sauce and savory flavors!