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
Scale
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
