Creamy Mafaldine Pasta w/ Chicken Sausage & Shrimp
Welcome to a delightful pasta recipe that’s both comforting and flavorful! This Creamy Mafaldine Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Shrimp combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage and shrimp with a luscious creamy sauce, all nestled among ribbons of Mafaldine pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Once you have your mise en place together, it’s time to prep the onions and chop your chicken sausage.
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Mafaldine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Next, add a bit of olive oil to your skillet and brown the sausage. Use a slotted spoon and remove the sausage once it’s cooked.
In the same skillet with the sausage fat, cook your shrimp. Remove the shrimp and set aside until later.
Build the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
Sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize it slightly.
Add the sundried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
Create the Creamy Base:
Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the tomato paste.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce.
Season with red pepper flakes, chicken bouillon, AP seasoning, and oregano to taste.
Add the cooked sausage, shrimp, and spinach to the sauce.
Cook for a few minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
Gently fold in the cooked Mafaldine pasta, ensuring it’s well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Tips:
Pasta Shape: Mafaldine is a great choice for this dish due to its ruffled edges, which help the creamy sauce cling well. However, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti if preferred.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.