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This one-pan penne with spinach and Italian sausage is super creamy and cozy. It’s full of rich taste and hearty bits but still comes together quickly and easily for a busy weeknight.
I whipped this up on a crazy night and was blown away by how tasty and filling it was, even though it didn’t take much effort. Now it’s my go-to when I want something comforting but quick.
What You’ll Need
- Fresh spinach: pick crisp leaves with good color, no wilting
- Chicken broth: low salt is best so you can control seasoning; this helps cook and flavor the dish
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for that salty, nutty finish
- Heavy cream: use full fat for a thick, smooth sauce
- Red pepper flakes: optional but adds a nice little heat kick
- Italian sausage: choose mild or spicy, remove casing so it crumbles well
- Penne pasta: dry pasta with a shape that holds sauce nicely
- Salt and black pepper: freshly ground for seasoning
- Garlic: fresh cloves bring a nice aroma and depth
- Olive oil: extra virgin for cooking the sausage and adding flavor
- Fresh parsley or basil: for sprinkling on top to brighten it up
Step-By-Step Cooking
- Cook the Sausage First
- Warm olive oil in a big pan over medium heat. Toss in the Italian sausage and break it up while it browns. This will create a tasty base for everything else.
- Add Garlic and Spice
- Stir in the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until they start smelling really good. Don’t let the garlic burn here.
- Mix in Cream and Broth
- Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the pan. Stir it gently and bring it to a light simmer. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce get thicker.
- Stir in the Pasta
- Add the penne right to the sauce. Cover the pan and cook it for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring now and then so it doesn’t stick. The pasta will soak up the liquid and get tender.
- Add Greens and Cheese
- Once the pasta is just right, toss in the spinach and cook until it wilts. Then stir in Parmesan cheese and season everything with salt and pepper.
The way the sausage crisps while the sauce stays silky is amazing. Tossing in fresh basil at the end makes it feel just right for summer. The family always asks for this one.
How To Store It Right
Put leftovers in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat it, add a bit of broth or cream and warm it gently on the stove. Skip the microwave if you want to keep that silky sauce texture.
Switch It Up
Try swapping mild Italian sausage for spicy or plant-based versions depending on your taste or diet. Use kale or arugula instead of spinach to add a peppery note. Rotini or farfalle pasta are fun shapes that catch sauce nicely.
Best Things To Serve With It
Pair this with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or focaccia is perfect for soaking up all that sauce. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a soft red like Chianti works great here.
Where It Comes From
This dish brings Italian sausage and creamy sauce together blending Southern Italy’s rustic flavors with Northern Italy’s creamy styles. It’s a tasty mix of old-school and modern comfort food traditions.
Seasonal Twists
Add bright cherry tomatoes and fresh basil in spring or summer for a pop of color. In fall, mix in roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for cozy flavors. In winter, try a pinch of nutmeg or swap spinach for kale to keep it warm and comforting.
This meal is so much more than food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s simple, tasty, and perfect for sharing. Every creamy, savory bite is worth savoring.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which sausage should I pick?
You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage without the casing. That way, you can control how spicy it gets.
- → Can I swap penne for a different pasta?
Sure, rotini, farfalle, or any shorter pasta works well since they hold the sauce nicely.
- → How do I throw in more veggies?
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini by sautéing them with the sausage. It makes the dish more colorful and healthy.
- → What’s the best way to cook the sausage?
Cook it on medium heat and break it up into small bits. This helps it cook evenly and brings out the flavor.
- → Is it okay to skip the cream for a lighter dish?
You can swap cream for milk or broth. It’ll be less rich but still tasty.