One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage 🍝🥬🌟

1. Introduction

If you love a comforting pasta dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, then this One-Pan Creamy Penne recipe is perfect for you. Combining tender penne, savory Italian sausage, vibrant spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Made with simple ingredients, this easy penne recipe is not only delicious but also convenient, maximizing flavor with minimal cleanup. Dive into this flavorful pasta dish that’s guaranteed to become a weekly favorite!

2. Ingredients Needed for the Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (see our pasta tag)
• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 cups fresh spinach (see our spinach tag)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Preparing the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and prepare them accordingly. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and set the spinach aside.

Cooking the Italian Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics and Spinach

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Cooking the Penne Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the skillet with the cooked spinach and aromatics.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly. Add the cooked Italian sausage back to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Final Touches and Serving

Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if you’d like. For added flavor, check out our garlic butter pasta recipe for variations to try.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Penne

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to regain its creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience

This easy penne recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. Consider topping it with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. For a complete meal, explore other dinner ideas on our site or try our dreamy chicken pasta as a delicious side dish.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

Yes! You can swap Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile or dietary preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not naturally. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta available in most stores.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — This durable cookware set makes cooking and cleaning effortless, enhancing your entire kitchen experience.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — A versatile tool for quickly chopping vegetables, saving you time in prep.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Perfect if you want to serve refreshing drinks alongside your pasta meal.

Investing in quality kitchen tools like these can make cooking this one-pan creamy penne a breeze, ensuring delicious results every time.

8. Final Tips to Perfect Your Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

• Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust the cream and cheese to suit your preferred level of creaminess.
• Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture—frozen spinach can be substituted if needed.

9. Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich, comforting flavors, combined with the simplicity of a one-pan process, make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when hosting friends. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Try this delicious recipe today and transform simple ingredients into a satisfyingly hearty feast!

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