The sizzle of Italian sausage mingling with garlic fills my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy trattoria. When I crave a comforting dish with a hint of adventure, I turn to my One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage. It’s a delightful quick meal that balances savory flavors with the freshness of spinach all wrapped in a velvety Parmesan sauce. What I love most is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight and you’re tired of fast food. Plus, with just one pan to clean, you can savor your well-deserved meal without the hassle of a mountain of dishes. So, are you ready to create this heartwarming dish that’s guaranteed to impress your family?
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Delicious Comfort: This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage delivers rich, savory flavors that feel like a warm embrace after a long day.
Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes to prepare, this recipe eliminates the need for takeout on busy nights.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup while providing a satisfying meal that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in vegetables like mushrooms or even use ground turkey for a healthier twist, just like in my Sheet Pan Sausage Veggies – the possibilities are endless!
Family-Approved: Impress your loved ones with a dish that combines comfort food with a touch of Italian authenticity.
Get ready to indulge in a meal that will have everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in!
Creamy Penne with Spinach Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – The star of this dish, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the sausage; can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
• Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth and flavor; ground turkey or chicken works for a leaner option.
• Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; fresh garlic enhances the taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides optional heat to the sauce; adjust according to spice level preference.
• Chicken Broth – The flavorful liquid base for the sauce, giving it a rich depth; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers that decadent, creamy texture in the sauce; use half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Vital seasonings to enhance the dish; use to taste.
For the Vegetables
• Fresh Spinach – A nutritious pop of color and freshness; kale can be a robust alternative.
For Garnish
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Imparts a rich cheesy flavor to the dish; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.
This quick, creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This will take about 1 minute. Ensure the oil is hot enough to sauté the sausage properly, which will create a beautiful, crispy texture. A non-stick skillet works wonderfully for this creamy penne dish.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and crispy, stirring frequently. The sausage should have a lovely golden color, releasing its savory aroma that sets the stage for a delightful meal.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring until the garlic is fragrant, but take care not to let it burn. This step infuses your creamy penne with aromatic goodness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to bubble lightly. This creamy sauce will provide a rich base for your penne, so make sure it is well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Pasta
Add 12 ounces of penne pasta to the skillet, thoroughly mixing it into the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce while cooking to an al dente texture, which should be tender but with a slight bite.
Step 6: Add Spinach
Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach. Stir gently for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant. This not only enhances the creamy penne with nutritional benefits but also adds a fresh pop of color.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Finally, sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. The result should be a luscious, savory coating on your creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage, ready to impress your family.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sausage and aromatics (garlic and red pepper flakes) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead; just mix the chicken broth and heavy cream, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the penne as instructed, then stir in the prepped sausage and sauce until heated through. This method ensures your dish maintains its delicious quality and saves you precious time on hectic weeknights!
What to Serve with One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Looking to create a delightful spread that complements the velvety richness of your pasta?
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce while adding a comforting crunch.
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Arugula Salad: The peppery freshness of arugula contrasts beautifully with the savory pasta, adding a light and zesty touch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized sweet potatoes or seasonal veggies enhance the meal with a depth of flavor and texture.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Bright, tender green beans add a pop of color and a snap that balances the creaminess of the penne.
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Caprese Skewers: Juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp wine complements the dish’s richness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, its coffee notes pairing harmoniously after a savory feast.
Build your perfect dinner and watch as your family gathers around, eagerly anticipating every delightful bite!
Storage Tips for Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the creamy texture of your penne.
Freezer: You can freeze the creamy penne in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain that luscious sauce consistency.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving creamy dishes at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Creamy Penne with Spinach Variations
Feel free to make this One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage your own—let your creativity shine!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative. It adds a subtle sweetness that’ll surprise your taste buds!
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Whole Grain: Opt for whole grain penne to boost the nutrition. This swap adds fiber while maintaining that deliciously creamy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to ramp up the heat level. Your adventurous eaters will love the extra zing!
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the spinach for vibrant colors and textures. It’s a fantastic way to empty the fridge!
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Lean Protein: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken to make the dish lighter. You’ll still get that savory goodness while keeping things lean.
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Nutty Twist: Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunchy texture. This delightful addition will bring a nutty flavor to balance the creaminess.
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Pasta Variety: Experiment with different pasta shapes—farfalle or fusilli can make the dish visually exciting while soaking up that creamy sauce beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. This elevates the dish with fragrant, fresh notes, reminiscent of sunny Italian kitchens.
Feel inspired? This Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a versatile canvas that you can adapt to your taste and ingredient preferences, making every meal an exciting new experience. Enjoy serving your delicious creation alongside a refreshing Cucumber Salad Bacon or some comforting Italian Herbs Cheese bread!
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Penne
Keep It Cozy: Use high-quality Italian sausage for a richer flavor that elevates your creamy penne.
Sauté Smart: Let the sausage brown thoroughly for that lovely crispy texture; this adds depth to the dish.
Creamy Consistency: Stir regularly as the pasta cooks; this helps prevent sticking and ensures an evenly creamy sauce.
Stay Flexible: Feel free to add more spinach or other veggies—just be mindful of the overall liquid; you want the sauce creamy, not soupy.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at the end to perfectly complement the rich flavors of your creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage.
Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Italian sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality Italian sausage that is fresh rather than pre-packaged for the best flavor. Look for sausages with a good balance of meat and fat—this ensures a juicy and flavorful outcome. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work beautifully, just make sure to season it accordingly.
What’s the best way to store leftover creamy penne?
For leftovers, store your creamy penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the sauce’s creamy texture without separating. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive that luscious flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Definitely! You can freeze your creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it out and seal tightly. Label the container with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently, adding a little liquid if needed to regain its creamy consistency.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while stirring on low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This little trick helps restore that velvety texture without sacrificing flavor.
Is this dish suitable for my vegetarian friends?
While this creamy penne features Italian sausage, you can absolutely adapt it for vegetarian diets. Start by substituting the sausage with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or crumbled mushrooms. Additionally, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a rich flavor while keeping it vegetarian. The creamy sauce remains delightful when combined with sautéed veggies like zucchini or bell peppers!
How can I add more veggies to this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can easily incorporate additional vegetables into this dish. Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes. Just ensure to sauté them alongside the sausage, adjusting the cooking time to keep everything tender yet vibrant. This not only increases nutritional value but also adds texture and flavor to your creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage recipe!
Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add 12 ounces of penne pasta to the skillet, thoroughly mixing it into the sauce.
- Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach.
- Finally, sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
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