Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that brings everyone to the dinner table, then Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is just what you need! This dish combines creamy, rich flavors with hearty sausage and fresh spinach, making it a favorite in my home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also feels special. Trust me; once you try this creamy pasta, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and savory sausage are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Deliciously Satisfying: Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a comforting choice for any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time and just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. No fancy items here—just good food that you probably already have in your pantry!
For the Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 pound Italian sausage (ground)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (torn)
Variations
One of the best things about Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage for a lighter option.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth for a delicious meatless version.
- Change the pasta shape: While penne works beautifully, feel free to use fusilli or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cooking the penne according to package directions until al dente ensures it’s perfectly tender but still has that wonderful bite. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining—you might need it later to adjust the sauce’s consistency!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and add in your ground sausage. Cooking it until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes) adds incredible flavor to our dish. Breaking it up with a wooden spoon ensures even cooking.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and toss in minced garlic. Sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute) really enhances its flavor. Then mix in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Adding cream next brings everything together—let it simmer for 3-5 minutes so it thickens nicely.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with your cooked sausage and baby spinach. Cooking until the spinach wilts (just about 1-2 minutes) ensures it’s bright but still vibrant. Seasoning with salt and pepper lets all those wonderful flavors shine through.
Step 5: Toss with Pasta
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add your cooked penne into the skillet and toss gently to coat every piece with that luscious sauce. If it’s too thick for your liking, pour in some reserved pasta water until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Dish it out hot, garnishing each plate with torn fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Creating a delicious Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta can be even more enjoyable with a few handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!
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Use quality sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring a richer and more authentic taste.
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Reserve pasta water: Always save some of the starchy pasta water before draining. This magical liquid can help adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it creamy and perfectly clingy to the pasta.
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Don’t rush the garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Garlic adds a delightful depth to the sauce, and properly cooking it ensures you get that wonderful aroma without any harsh flavors.
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Fresh herbs are key: Incorporating fresh basil not only brightens up your plate but also adds an aromatic freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your preference. A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika can bring a unique twist that makes this dish even more special!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta
Serving this dish can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to present your Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta beautifully!
Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves: Torn basil adds color and a fresh aroma, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
- Extra Parmesan cheese: A sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan on top is always welcome—who doesn’t love extra cheese?
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For guests who enjoy a little heat, providing crushed red pepper flakes at the table allows them to customize their dish.
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that’s perfect for scooping up sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the flavors of the pasta while adding nutritional value.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only looks appealing on the plate but also provides a nutritious and crunchy element that pairs well with creamy dishes.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For best results, keep the sauce separate from the pasta if possible.
Freezing
- Let the pasta cool down completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Check for seasoning and add salt or pepper if needed.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this recipe.
Can I substitute the Italian sausage in Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Just ensure to adjust spices accordingly!
How can I make Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Can I add vegetables to Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
What should I serve with Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish. You could also serve it alongside steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find this Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta recipe as delightful as I do! It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy making it in your kitchen; I can’t wait for you to share your experience! Happy cooking!
Creamy Tuscan Turkey Pasta
Creamy Tuscan Turkey Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. This recipe features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that harmonizes beautifully with savory ground turkey and vibrant spinach. Ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this meal is quick to prepare and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that feels like a treat without all the fuss. Once you experience this creamy pasta masterpiece, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the ground turkey for about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Toss cooked penne with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with torn fresh basil leaves.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg