Description
This creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a bold, one-pan pasta dish packed with comforting flavor. With savory sausage, tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it’s the perfect 30-minute meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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)
Instructions
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.
Notes
Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a twist.
Substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape.
Try a mix of Italian cheeses for extra richness.
Add more broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl