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Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage for Cozy Nights

This Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a comforting and quick meal that combines savory flavors in a velvety Parmesan sauce.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Penne Pasta The star of this dish, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for sautéing the sausage; can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Adds savory depth and flavor; ground turkey or chicken works for a leaner option.
  • 3 cloves 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.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth The flavorful liquid base for the sauce, giving it a rich depth; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
  • 1 cup 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
  • 4 cups Fresh Spinach A nutritious pop of color and freshness; kale can be a robust alternative.
For Garnish
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Imparts a rich cheesy flavor to the dish; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
  3. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta to the skillet, thoroughly mixing it into the sauce.
  6. Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, toss in 4 cups of fresh spinach.
  7. Finally, sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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