If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that's easy to prepare, the Sausage Pasta Skillet is a perfect choice. Combining the rich taste of sausage with the comforting textures of pasta, this meal is a surefire hit for family dinners or casual gatherings. Let's dive into the details to help you make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients
To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) of Italian sausage, casings removed
- 8 oz (225g) of pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup (240ml) of marinara sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150g) of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup (100g) of spinach leaves
- 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, halving the cherry tomatoes, and removing the sausage from its casings. Have all your ingredients ready to go.
Cooking Steps
Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Add the pasta to the skillet and ensure it's submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Incorporate Cream and Sausage: Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Add Vegetables and Cheese: Fold in the cherry tomatoes and spinach leaves, cooking until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and mix gently until melted and combined.
Finishing Touches
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meal is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here's a breakdown of the Sausage Pasta Skillet:
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron
The Sausage Pasta Skillet is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage, the comfort of pasta, and the freshness of vegetables. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. Give it a try, and it's sure to become a favorite in your household.