Description
This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a quick and hearty pasta dish that combines tender penne pasta with savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an easy and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water following the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Brown Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook the sausage until it is thoroughly browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down, which will take approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the sausage and spinach mixture. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy sauce.
- Season and Combine: Season the creamy sauce with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sausage and spinach sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy penne warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure pasta is drained well to avoid watery sauce.
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer before adding pasta.
