If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of sausage with the freshness of spinach and sundried tomatoes, look no further than this Creamy Sausage Farfalle. This recipe is simple to prepare but delivers a meal that’s sure to impress with its creamy texture and robust flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it pairs wonderfully with garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 pint heavy cream
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (or to taste)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 box farfalle pasta (about 16 oz)
- 1 bag baby spinach (about 5 oz)
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (if not already chopped)
- 5 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. For best results, cook the pasta until it is al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures that your pasta will maintain its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
2. Prepare the Sausage:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage to the pan. Cook, breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. This allows the sausage to retain its flavor and texture, which will be incorporated into the sauce later.
3. Create the Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet used for the sausage, add a little more oil if necessary and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your dish. - Prepare the Sauce Base:
Add the flour to the skillet with the garlic and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and releases a nutty aroma. This step helps to thicken the sauce and gives it a rich, smooth consistency. - Add Liquids:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Next, add the heavy cream and continue to stir until the mixture starts to thicken and becomes smooth. The cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, making it perfect for coating the pasta.
4. Combine Ingredients:
- Incorporate Sausage and Tomatoes:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the chopped sundried tomatoes. Stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. - Add Spinach:
Add the baby spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and is well mixed into the sauce. The spinach adds a fresh, vibrant color and a nutritional boost to the dish. - Add Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce. This will add a deliciously savory and cheesy flavor, making the sauce even richer and more indulgent.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta with the creamy sausage sauce to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
6. Serve:
- Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy sausage farfalle hot from the skillet. You can garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley if desired. This dish pairs excellently with garlic bread sticks or a fresh green salad, creating a well-rounded meal.
Tips and Variations
- Adjusting Garlic:
If you prefer a more subtle garlic flavor, use fewer cloves. Conversely, if you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add extra. - Spinach Alternatives:
If baby spinach is not available, you can use regular spinach. Chop it into smaller pieces and cook until wilted. - Sundried Tomatoes:
Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add extra flavor. Drain them well before chopping and adding them to the dish. - Cheese Options:
If Parmesan is not available, you can substitute Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese. The cheese adds a salty, umami flavor to the sauce. - Cream Substitutes:
For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream. This will reduce the richness of the sauce but still provide a creamy texture. - Protein Variations:
If you prefer not to use sausage, you can substitute with chicken, turkey, or another protein. Adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. - Freezing:
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
This Creamy Sausage Farfalle with Spinach and Sundried Tomatoes is a delightful, comforting meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh vegetables and savory sausage. It’s a dish that’s both easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures of this delicious recipe!
