Pasta with Sausages, Leeks, and Spinach

Name: Pasta with Sausages, Leeks, and Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 300 g pasta (penne or other short pasta); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 links sausages (Italian or your choice, sliced); 2 large leeks (washed and thinly sliced); 3 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); to taste salt and pepper

45 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A delicious and hearty pasta dish featuring savoury sausages, tender leeks, and fresh spinach.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

This pasta with sausages, leeks, and spinach is a comforting and flavourful dish that can be prepared in under an hour. The savoury taste of the sausages pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the leeks, while the spinach adds a fresh and vibrant touch. Ideal for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is both simple to make and impressively delicious. It's a versatile recipe that allows for some customization depending on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Cook the Sausages

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausages and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Pro tip: Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausages, leaving the oil in the skillet for the leeks.

Sauté the Leeks

In the same skillet, add the leeks and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Add a splash of water if the leeks begin to brown too quickly.

Combine Ingredients

Return the sausages to the skillet with the leeks. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Finish the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly.

Pro tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Toss and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, garnish with more grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality sausages for the best flavour.
Be sure to clean the leeks thoroughly, as they can hold dirt between their layers.
Fresh spinach adds great texture and nutrients, but you can use frozen spinach in a pinch.
Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving for an added touch of flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausages should I use?

Italian sausages are a great choice, but you can use any type of sausage you prefer.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.

How do I clean leeks properly?

Slice the leeks and rinse them in a bowl of water, separating layers to remove any trapped dirt.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and reheat before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

What is the best pasta for this dish?

Penne or any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni works well to hold the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. It pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition per serving

650

Calories

28g

Protein

32g

Fat

Deliciously light pasta with shrimp and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Easy35 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · BBQ Pizza Stones

VEVOR Pizza Stone, 15 in Round Cordierite Pizza Stone, Extra Large Baking-Stone with Aluminum Peel, 0.67 in Thickness Heat-Resistant Cooking Cordierite, for Kitchen Oven, Baking Pizzas, BBQ Grilling

$42.90

Coffee & Drinks · Milk Frothers

Milk Frother and Steamer 4 in 1 Automatic Coffee Steamer Frother, 11.8OZ / 350ML Warm and Cold Foam Frother for Coffee,Latte, Cappuccino, Macchiato, Hot Chocolate (Black)

$41.99

Pit Boss Grills

Maximize Your Smoke Kit

$24.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.