Creamy Pasta with Italian Sausage

I will start by saying that Trader Joe’s has almost 10 years of commitment from me, so I know just about every ingredient in that store. I’m not stopping any time soon, even though their 19 cent bananas have now gone up to 23 cents. I noticed it as soon as the change was made and before the 20 percent uproar, but like every committed Trader Joe’s shopper, “Imma stick beside them.”

I will say this, no matter what Trader Joe’s I enter, the cashiers and staff are all kind. I’ve never had a bad interaction and I always kept an eye out for a few people. Kindest staff ever and you can always get help.

With that said, let’s get into this meal. Like I have pointed out in prior posts. You’re in luck today, I have portions to my ingredients.

Ding, ding, ding!

Serving: 4

Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 packet penne rigate or rigatoni

1 or 2 container(s) of sweet Italian sausage (depends on how much meat you like)

2/3 medium sliced sweet peppers

Handful or more of spinach

1 tbsp oil

1 cup pasta sauce

1/2 cup dairy heavy cream/vegan heavy cream

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup pasta water

Shredded cheese *optional and if your choice

Directions

1. Start cooking pasta per the instructions on the package. Stop the boiling 3 minutes prior to the recommended time. If 12 minutes is suggested for cooking, cook for 9 minutes. Always set a timer.

2. While the water is boiling, slice the sweet peppers and remove the casing from the sausage.

3. Heat a medium/large pot on medium to high heat. Pour in oil and place the sausages in the pot. Use a fish slice to separate the meat to create a slightly finer texture. Mix when necessary to prevent sticking to the pot.

4. When all the meat is brown, add in the sweet peppers and spinach. Mix it in and allow to cook to the desired texture.

5. By then the pasta should be done and drained saving about 1/2 - 1 cup of the water.

6. Add in the pasta sauce, heavy cream, milk and the pasta water to the sausage mixture.

7. Mix thoroughly. Then add the pasta and allow to cook for 3 minutes covered or to your desired texture.

8. Allow to cool. Serve and grate cheese if desired.

Bon appetit!