Creamy Smoked Gouda Sausage Pasta (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 340 grams pasta (penne or rotini)
02 - 450 grams smoked sausage, sliced (kielbasa, andouille, or turkey sausage)
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 950 milliliters chicken broth
06 - 240 milliliters heavy cream
07 - 225 grams smoked gouda cheese, shredded
08 - 30 grams fresh spinach (about 1 cup)
09 - 15 milliliters olive oil (1 tablespoon)
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
11 - Optional: Red pepper flakes, to taste

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
04 - Stir in the heavy cream, cooked sausage, and fresh spinach. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt.
05 - Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded smoked gouda until fully melted and creamy.
06 - Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Serve immediately.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Use freshly shredded smoked gouda for better melting and flavor. Avoid overcooking the pasta since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
02 - Brown the sausage thoroughly to enhance the smoky depth of the dish.