Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage (or ground turkey) to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Garlic

Add the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the sausage. Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Once the sausage and vegetables are cooked, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cream starts to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a rich, velvety sauce. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and the crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra depth of flavor.

Step 5: Add the Spinach and Fresh Basil

Once the cream has thickened, toss in the chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts into the sauce. Then, add the fresh basil and stir to combine. The basil adds a lovely fragrance and freshness that balances out the richness of the sauce.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now that the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Use tongs to gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make it creamy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is well mixed and heated through, garnish with toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch and fresh mozzarella for a creamy, melty finish. Add extra fresh basil leaves on top for color and flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy the festive, creamy goodness of your Christmas Pasta!