Ingredients for Zesty Penne Pasta Light
- 1 (13 1/4 ounce) package whole wheat penne
- 1 lb reduced fat bulk Italian sausage
- 1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
- 3 ounces reduced fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- cooking spray
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
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How to Make Zesty Penne Pasta Light
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a light spray of cooking spray. Brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes).
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and red chili pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the softened light cream cheese to the sauce and stir until completely melted and smooth (about 2 minutes). If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt slightly and the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
13 g
Sugar
21g
Fat
11g
Carbs
12g
