One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is the ultimate one-pan dinner — rich, hearty, and bursting with bold flavor in every bite. This easy pasta dish features savory Italian sausage, tender penne, and fresh spinach tossed in a luscious cream sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect go-to for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, satisfying, and made with just one pan (hello, easy cleanup!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a full meal in one pan
• Rich, cheesy sauce with bold sausage flavor
• Family-friendly and dinner-party approved
• Cooks in under 30 minutes — no need to boil pasta separately

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
2. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Stir in diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the uncooked penne, chicken broth, heavy cream, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
7. Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
8. Turn off heat and stir in grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Serving Tips

Serve your creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage hot and fresh, right from the pan. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil adds the perfect finishing touch.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• To reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
• Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate, but it can be done in a pinch.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4–6

Optional Variations

• Different greens: Swap spinach with kale or arugula for a twist.
• Cheese blend: Try Asiago, Fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses instead of Parmesan.
• Lighter option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Pasta types: Substitute penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.
• Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for heat.

Related Recipes

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
• Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells
• One Pot Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Conclusion

This creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is the kind of cozy, satisfying dish that makes dinner feel special — without any of the stress. It’s quick, delicious, and made entirely in one pan. Add it to your weekly rotation and enjoy easy comfort food at its best.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Yes, just chop and heat it before adding pasta and liquids. It still adds great flavor.

Q2: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Absolutely — just thaw and squeeze out the moisture before adding it to the dish.

Q3: Is this dish spicy?
A: Not unless you use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes. It’s easy to adjust the heat.

Q4: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Try using a dairy-free cream substitute and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan version.

Q5: Will gluten-free pasta work?
A: Yes, but cooking times and liquid absorption may vary slightly.

📖 Recipe

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