If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines comforting creaminess with vibrant flavors, you have to try this One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe. It’s a wonderful marriage of tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce made from rich heavy cream and sharp Parmesan, perfectly balanced by savory, browned Italian sausage and fresh, bright spinach. This recipe is a total game-changer when you want a hearty yet fresh dinner that comes together quickly with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the true secret to nailing this dish. Each one plays a crucial role: from the robust Italian sausage that brings a meaty richness, to the fresh spinach that adds color and a hint of earthiness, and of course the cheese and cream that deliver that irresistible creamy texture. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
- 8 oz penne pasta: Choose a quality brand for the best texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to achieving that rich and silky sauce that coats every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for browning the sausage and bringing out its flavors.
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed: Adds a savory, slightly spiced depth that’s essential to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with delicious aroma and subtle heat.
- 5 cups fresh spinach: Packed with nutrients and gives a fresh, vibrant green color to brighten the plate.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides umami, sharpness, and helps thicken the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential for balancing the entire flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Optional kick of heat to elevate the dish if you like a little spice.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente—this means it should be tender but still with a little bite, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures the pasta won’t overcook once combined with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage
Heat olive oil in a sizable skillet over medium heat, then add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the sausage really unlocks those deep, savory flavors that form the backbone of the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once your sausage is beautifully browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for just about a minute. This short sauté releases garlic’s wonderful fragrance and melds its flavor into the sausage, creating a perfect foundation for the sauce without turning bitter.
Step 4: Wilt the Fresh Spinach
Next, toss in the fresh spinach. It’ll seem like a lot at first, but spinach wilts quickly. Cook it down in the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes until tender and vibrant green. This not only adds a lovely color but also balances the richness of the cream and sausage with a fresh, earthy note.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir everything together. Then gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce turns silky smooth and creamy. The cheese doesn’t just thicken the sauce; it adds that delicious cheesy flavor that’s so comforting in every forkful.
Step 6: Season and Combine with Pasta
Now it’s time to season your sauce with salt and fresh black pepper, and if you love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully here. Then add your cooked penne into the skillet and toss everything until each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve Warm with Toppings
Serve this creamy penne piping hot right from the pan. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top. This dish tastes best fresh but is satisfying and indulgent every time you dig in.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t be afraid to get creative with garnishes! Freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves add a fresh herbal brightness, while a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy creaminess. A drizzle of good quality olive oil on top can also add a glossy finish and subtle richness to the presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables creates a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a simple bruschetta can also elevate the dining experience by adding crunch and extra layers of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner, serve the creamy penne right in the skillet or transfer it to a shallow, wide serving bowl to showcase those vibrant greens and golden sausage bits. Adding a small bowl of chili flakes and Parmesan on the side lets everyone customize their plate. For a special occasion, plate it elegantly with a sprig of herbs and a torn piece of crusty bread nearby.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more after a day, making it a perfect next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this creamy pasta dish, although the texture of the spinach might soften further after freezing and thawing. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from breaking. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir continuously until warmed through. Using a microwave works too, but heat in short bursts, stirring in between to evenly warm the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage works well as a leaner alternative. Just make sure they’re well-seasoned or Italian-spiced to keep that bold sausage flavor in the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses regular penne pasta, which contains gluten. You can easily substitute it with gluten-free penne to make the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based sausage alternative. The creamy sauce with spinach remains deliciously satisfying on its own.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, but the sauce will be slightly less thick and creamy. Adding a bit of cream cheese can also help thicken it up.
How spicy is this dish?
The One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe itself is mildly spiced, but adding red pepper flakes allows you to control the heat level to suit your preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about the way creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and fresh spinach come together in the One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet indulgent enough to impress guests. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines hearty Italian sausage with fresh spinach and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce & Meat
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is melted and creamy.
- Season and combine: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy penne warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice spicy kick.
- Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for best flavor and texture.
- You can add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
