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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet

A close-up view of creamy chicken sausage pasta featuring penne, browned sausage pieces, wilted spinach, and tomatoes.

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Make this easy, one-pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe uses savory chicken sausage and a rich, flavorful sauce for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly tender.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, uncovered, for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve this easy chicken sausage pasta immediately.

Notes

  • For a budget friendly option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
  • You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes for fresh diced tomatoes for a more intense Tuscan flavor.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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