Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta

This tomato spinach sausage pasta combines rich Italian flavors with fresh ingredients for a quick weeknight dinner that never disappoints. The marriage of spicy sausage with tender spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without hours in the kitchen.

I first created this recipe when my Italian neighbor shared her secret to elevating simple pasta dishes with quality sausage. After perfecting it over countless family dinners it has become our most requested meal when friends come over especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is calling.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: provides rich savory flavor and protein choose sweet or hot depending on your preference
• Fresh spinach: adds nutrition and beautiful color wilts perfectly into the sauce
• Ripe tomatoes: bring natural sweetness and acidity look for Roma or cherry varieties for best results
• Pasta: shapes that catch sauce like penne or rigatoni work best
• Smoked paprika: adds depth without overwhelming heat
• Garlic: fresh provides aromatic foundation always worth using fresh over powdered
• Olive oil: high quality makes a noticeable difference in final flavor
• Parmesan cheese: aged varieties melt beautifully and enhance all other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:

Begin by removing sausage from casings and chopping all vegetables. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process much smoother and ensures nothing overcooks while you're prepping other items. Measure your spices and grate cheese at this stage too.

Cook The Pasta:

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions usually 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining this starchy liquid helps bind the sauce later.

Brown The Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until well browned and no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. The caramelization that happens during this step creates incredible flavor foundation.

Add Aromatics:

Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Then sprinkle in the smoked paprika stirring constantly to prevent burning. This brief cooking time releases the essential oils in the garlic without allowing it to become bitter.

Incorporate Tomatoes:

Add the tomatoes to the skillet and use your spoon to lightly crush them releasing their juices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced and flavors begin to meld. The tomatoes will create a light sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

Wilt The Spinach:

Add fresh spinach to the skillet. It will look like a lot but quickly wilts down to the perfect amount. Stir gently until just wilted about 2 minutes. The residual heat is enough to cook the spinach while maintaining its bright color and nutrients.

Combine Everything:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce. If needed add more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Finish And Serve:

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately with additional cheese for sprinkling on top.

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The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered its transformative power during a cooking class in Barcelona where the chef used it in seemingly everything. Just a teaspoon elevates this simple pasta dish from good to memorable giving it a subtle smokiness that makes people wonder what your secret is.

Make Ahead Options

This pasta dish reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal prep. Cook the entire dish allow it to cool completely then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and stir occasionally to ensure even heating. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day making leftovers something to look forward to.

Vegetarian Adaptations

For a meatless version substitute the Italian sausage with plant based alternatives or use meaty mushrooms like portobello or oyster varieties. Sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and begin to brown to develop maximum flavor. You might want to increase seasonings slightly as mushrooms will absorb more than meat. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can help replace the spice typically found in Italian sausage.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty pasta with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil to cut through the richness. For beverages a medium bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato and sausage flavors beautifully. If you prefer nonalcoholic options sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon creates a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the sausage for another meat?

Yes, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well, but feel free to use your favorite type.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the sausage with mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of roasted veggies for a vegetarian twist.

→ How can I add more spice?

Enhance the spice by adding red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage.

→ What garnishes pair well with this dish?

Freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil are all great options.