One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta: A Rich and Easy Weeknight Wonder with a White Bean Twist!
Creamy Tuscan Pasta
This One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta, is irresistibly easy and
delicious! The addition of white beans creates a surprisingly rich and creamy
texture, making it the perfect weeknight meal.
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: EasyServings
6
servingsPrep Time
25
minutesCooking time
15
minutesCalories
491
kcalThe flavors of this One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta are rich and simple. It’s a simple and filling midweek supper that’s enhanced by the addition of white beans.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 to 16 ounces pork or chicken smoked sausage, sliced
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
15-ounce can white beans, like Great Northern, drained
12 ounces medium pasta shells
2 ½ cups chicken broth
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried basil
2 to 3 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach (about 3 ounces)
1 to 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
Fresh basil and/or chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Brown the sausage slices for 2-3 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. - Blend the Beans and Tomatoes:
In a blender, combine the drained beans and undrained diced tomatoes. Blend until mostly smooth. - Add Ingredients to the Skillet:
Pour the blended mixture into the skillet, along with the pasta shells, broth, salt, and basil. - Cook the Pasta:
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, about 12-14 minutes. If the mixture gets too dry, add a bit more broth. - Combine Everything:
Stir in the cooked sausage and spinach. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the cheeses over the pasta. Cover and let it sit until the cheese is melted. Alternatively, broil in an oven-safe pan until bubbly. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Notes
Garlic Substitutes: You can use dehydrated garlic (1 teaspoon = 1 clove)
or garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon = 1 clove).
Instant Pot Method:
Step 1: Brown the sausage in the Instant Pot and set
it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic, then add the
broth. Scrape the bottom well to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the pasta, basil, and salt. Stir, then
pour in the blended tomato/bean mixture on top (don’t stir).
Step 4: Cook for half the al dente time listed on the
pasta package, minus 1-2 minutes. Quick release the pressure carefully.
Step 5: Stir in the sausage, spinach, and cheese, and
heat through
