5Italian sausage links (16-19oz) - casings removed and break sausages into small bite sized pieces
2handfuls baby spinach
2shallots - finely diced
3clovesgarlic - minced
2tbspTomato paste
1/3cupJulienned sun-dried tomatoes + 2 tsp oil from the jar
1tbspCalabrian chili - adjust to taste
1tspsmoke paprika
1tspgarlic powder
1tspItalian seasoning
1cupfreshly grated Parmesan
1/2cupheavy cream
chopped parsley - garnish
2burrata balls - torn into small pieces, optional
Instructions
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Brown the sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausages and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Build the flavor base:
In the same skillet, add the diced shallots and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, sun-dried tomato oil, Calabrian chili, smoke paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and well combined. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
Make the sauce:
Pour in the reserved pasta water, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Finish the pasta:
Add the spinach and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until the spinach is wilted and everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve:
Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. For an extra creamy, elevated finish, add torn burrata on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!