Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that combines savory sausage with a rich, creamy sauce and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With its comforting flavors and quick prep time, you won’t want to miss out on this pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian sausage creates a savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! This dish is a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Comfort Food: With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this pasta is perfect for cozy dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pan: Ideal for browning sausage and creating the sauce in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot ensures even cooking of the pasta while allowing ample space for stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Sausage and Sauce

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

• Water for a large pot
• 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 to brown it. Once cooked through, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease. Wipe out the pan to remove any leftover grease while keeping some charred bits for flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While browning the sausage, heat salted water in another pot. When boiling, add the short cut pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In the same pan where you cooked the sausage, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium flame until shimmering. Add diced shallots and sauté for about 3 minutes while stirring regularly. Next, add garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for about 3 more minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow it to reduce by half before adding heavy cream. Mix everything well before adding thyme sprigs and salt. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gently stir in Asiago cheese over low heat until melted. Then return browned Italian sausage back into the sauce. Simmer together for another 3-5 minutes before folding in spinach one cup at a time until wilted. Finally, mix in cooked pasta noodles.

Step 6: Serve

To serve your creamy Italian sausage sun dried tomato pasta, top with additional fresh thyme, coarse sea salt, fresh cracked pepper to taste, or garnish with basil if you like.

Enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones!

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 cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these suggestions will help you present this dish beautifully and deliciously.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Thyme: Sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves on top for a fragrant touch.
• Basil: Add whole or chopped basil leaves for a burst of flavor.

Pair with Cheese

• Grated Asiago: Top each plate with extra grated Asiago cheese for richness.
• Parmesan: Offer fresh Parmesan as an alternative for those who enjoy its nuttiness.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creaminess of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is slightly firm; it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
• Deglaze Properly: Scrape up all the brown bits in the pan for added depth in flavor.
• Control Heat: Keep the heat low when adding cream to prevent curdling and ensure smoothness.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Let it Rest: Allow the pasta to sit briefly off the heat before serving; this helps flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
2. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition alongside your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an enticing start.
6. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the pasta nicely.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini alongside or mixed into your dish.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms make an impressive appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong sausage: Opt for uncased Italian sausage for the best flavor. If unavailable, make sure to remove the casing from regular Italian sausage.
• Not deglazing the pan properly: After browning the sausage, be sure to scrape up any brown bits when adding vinegar. This adds depth to your sauce.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh thyme enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip this step; it makes your dish aromatic and fresh.
• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps develop flavors. Don’t rush through this step; give it time.
• Ignoring serving suggestions: Adding fresh basil or additional cheese can elevate your dish. Don’t forget those finishing touches!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta.

Can I use turkey instead of sausage?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that still offers delicious flavor while being leaner.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce and pasta appeal to most children, making it a family favorite.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also substitute other cheeses based on your preference.

What can I serve with Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, rounding out your meal nicely.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Experiment with different proteins or add more veggies to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Italian Sausage Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together savory sausage and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also easy to customize with your favorite vegetables. With its satisfying flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Treat your loved ones to this delightful meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb uncased Italian sausage (sweet or mild)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced shallots
• 4 cloves garlic, diced
• 1 1/2 cups julienne sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 3/4 cup dry apple vinegar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
• 2/3 cup fresh Asiago cheese
• 2 cups packed fresh spinach
• 1 lb short cut pasta

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the uncased Italian sausage until fully cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Boil salted water in a pot and cook short cut pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté shallots for about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Deglaze the skillet with apple vinegar; reduce by half before adding heavy cream, thyme sprigs, and salt—simmer gently for about 4 minutes.
5. Stir in Asiago cheese until melted, then add the sausage back into the sauce. Fold in spinach until wilted before mixing in the cooked pasta.
6. Serve hot topped with more Asiago cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg