Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

Introduction

Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach is a hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of savory sausage with the freshness of spinach, all perfectly complemented by the delightful texture of fusilli pasta. This dish is the perfect comfort food, offering a balance of bold, savory flavors and a healthy dose of greens. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach is sure to become a family favorite.

The fusion of perfectly cooked sausage and tender spinach creates a harmonious combination that will leave you wanting more. The creamy sauce, made with a mix of olive oil, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan, binds all the ingredients together to create a satisfying and flavorful dish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach, from cooking the pasta to creating the sauce and putting everything together.

Why You’ll Love Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach

• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of savory sausage, fresh spinach, and garlic creates a rich, flavorful base. The fusilli pasta holds the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but craving something hearty and comforting.
• Nutritious: Spinach adds a burst of vitamins and minerals, making this dish a well-balanced meal. The sausage provides protein, while the pasta gives you the carbs you need for a filling dinner.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Swap out the sausage for chicken sausage or add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and variety.
• Comforting: This dish is the perfect combination of rich and comforting, without being too heavy. The creamy sauce, sausage, and spinach all come together in a way that feels indulgent yet still light enough to enjoy on a regular basis.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach:

• 12 ounces fusilli pasta (or any other pasta of your choice)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups fresh spinach (washed and roughly chopped)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Fusilli Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

While the pasta is cooking, be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can be used later to help create a silky sauce. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is fully cooked through and nicely browned. If you prefer a leaner dish, you can use turkey or chicken sausage.

Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave any rendered fat in the skillet, as it will add flavor to the sauce.

3. Sauté Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down. If your skillet is small, you can add the spinach in batches. Stir the spinach occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Once the spinach is wilted, season it with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the spinach is cooked, add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic and spinach. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly. This will create a rich, creamy base for the sauce.

Add the cooked sausage back into the pan and mix everything together. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and thicken it further. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out and make it more velvety.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly cracked black pepper, if necessary. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fusilli pasta to the skillet with the sausage and spinach sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat it evenly, making sure every piece of pasta is covered with the creamy mixture. If the sauce seems dry, you can add a bit more of the reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Once the pasta is well combined with the sauce, remove the skillet from the heat.

6. Serve the Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach

Serve the fusilli with sausage and spinach immediately, garnishing it with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.

Tips for Perfect Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully in this dish, creating a vibrant green color and a soft texture that pairs perfectly with the sausage and pasta. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the pan.
• Choose the Right Sausage: You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your flavor preference. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for sweet sausage. For a little heat, go for spicy sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: The sauce will thicken as it cools, so feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed. The starch in the pasta water will help the sauce cling to the noodles.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Spinach wilts quickly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t cook too long. You want the spinach to maintain some texture and vibrancy rather than turning mushy.
• Add More Vegetables: If you want to boost the nutritional value of this dish, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the spinach for added flavor and texture.
• Make it Lighter: If you want a lighter version of this dish, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use a lower-fat sausage option.

Variations of Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach

• Fusilli with Sausage and Kale: If you prefer kale over spinach, simply substitute it in this recipe. Kale adds a heartier texture and a slightly bitter flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the sausage and cream.
• Fusilli with Sausage and Ricotta: For an even creamier dish, add a spoonful of ricotta cheese to the sauce before mixing in the pasta. The ricotta will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and more decadent.
• Fusilli with Sausage, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an extra burst of tangy, sweet flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes will add complexity and depth to the dish.
• Fusilli with Sausage and White Wine Sauce: For a lighter sauce, replace the cream with a splash of dry white wine. Simmer the wine with the sausage and spinach until the sauce reduces slightly, creating a flavorful broth that coats the pasta.
• Fusilli with Sausage, Spinach, and Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the spinach. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms complements the richness of the sausage and the creaminess of the sauce.

Storage and Shelf Life

Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later.

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal. Be careful not to overheat the dish, as the cream sauce may separate.
• Freezing: While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it if necessary. Store the pasta in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach

Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach is a filling dish that pairs well with light sides to balance out the richness of the pasta. Here are some excellent side dish ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower add a healthy, flavorful side to the meal.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pasta and add a refreshing contrast.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with the sausage and spinach. For white wine lovers, try a dry Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

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Conclusion

Fusilli with Sausage and Spinach is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. With savory sausage, vibrant spinach, and rich cream, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish is quick, easy, and full of bold flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this hearty, delicious pasta dish today and make it a regular part of your dinner rotation!