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This dreamy penne loaded with Italian sausage and spinach comes together super quick in one pan. The spicy sausage pairs nicely with tender pasta and a rich Parmesan cream that makes any weeknight feel a little fancier.
I found this meal perfect for nights when I needed something hearty fast. It became a go-to favorite when time was tight.
What You'll Need
- Italian sausage: pick spicy or mild for your flavor preference
- Heavy cream: makes the sauce silky and smooth
- Parmesan cheese: fresh and grated for that cheesy punch
- Fresh spinach: bright and slightly earthy, look for vibrant leaves
- Chicken broth: low sodium is best to control salt
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: for seasoning
- Olive oil: extra virgin works great to cook sausage and garlic
- Fresh parsley or basil: colorful garnish to finish
- Garlic: use fresh cloves for stronger aroma and flavor
- Penne pasta: choose quality brand for perfect bite
- Red pepper flakes: add mild heat, adjust to your taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
- Heat the olive oil on medium in a big skillet. Toss in the sausage and break it up as it cooks, letting it brown fully. This builds the base flavor.
- Stir in garlic and spice:
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook briefly just till you smell their aroma, careful not to burn.
- Simmer the creamy base:
- Pour in chicken broth and cream. Let the mix gently simmer, blending to create that creamy sauce for the pasta.
- Add pasta and cook:
- Dump in dry penne and stir so all pieces are covered by the sauce. Cover the pan and cook 10-12 minutes, stirring once in a while to stop sticking and checking tenderness. The pasta soaks up all the flavor while cooking.
- Put in greens and cheese:
- When pasta is tender, gently fold in chopped spinach until it just wilts. Stir in grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste. This finishes the dish with bright and cheesy notes.
This one usually gets everyone chatting around the table. It’s simple enough for the whole family but still feels like a treat on hectic evenings or relaxed dinners.
Best Way to Store
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge and eat within three days to keep it tasting fresh. Warm it gently in a skillet with a little milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid heating too long in the microwave or the creaminess can go away.
Swaps and Changes
Instead of Italian sausage, swap in turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter twist. For a veggie option, try plant-based sausage or use mushrooms like cremini or portobello. You can also swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy vibe.
What Goes Well With This
Pair it with a crunchy green salad tossed in lemon dressing to cut through the rich cream. Garlic bread with a crusty crust makes it even better. A cold glass of Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio goes perfectly with the flavors.
Where It Comes From
This dish was inspired by classic Italian pasta meals where creamy sauces and sausage bring hearty, rustic comfort. It blends cozy traditional vibes with easy weeknight cooking.
Seasonal Twists
In fall and winter, add roasted red peppers or diced butternut squash for warmth and color. In spring or summer, swap spinach for fresh basil and toss in sun-dried tomatoes to brighten things up and celebrate fresh produce.
Cook pasta just till it’s firm to bite. Stir often so the sauce doesn’t stick or scorch. Add the cheese after turning off the heat so the sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Sure thing, short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli work fine but might need a bit of extra or less time to cook.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Just add more red pepper flakes or choose a spicy Italian sausage to kick up the heat.
- → Can I substitute the Italian sausage?
Plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms make tasty swaps that keep the flavor going.
- → What’s the best way to prevent pasta from sticking?
Keep stirring now and then while it cooks and make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the pasta so it cooks evenly.
- → Is it important to use fresh spinach?
Fresh spinach softens nicely without getting mushy but baby spinach or kale work well too.