One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe

This rich and creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a dish packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, with minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan approach.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The Parmesan cheese and heavy cream create a luxuriously creamy sauce.
• Customizable Heat: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a bit of a kick.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes great the next day—just add a splash of cream or milk when reheating.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp 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, for heat)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 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.
3. Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until combined. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
5. Season and Combine: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cooked penne to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This dish pairs well with garlic bread and a side salad. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with sliced mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a delicious meat-free version.
• Use Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula if you prefer a different leafy green.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes with the garlic.

Helpful Notes

• Salt to Taste: Parmesan cheese is salty, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.
• Pre-Washed Spinach: Using pre-washed spinach makes prep even faster, saving you time on busy nights.
• Cream Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out for a silky finish.

Tips from Chefs

• Chef Giada De Laurentiis: “To create a creamier sauce, reserve a little of the pasta water and add it to the sauce as you stir in the pasta—it helps bind everything together.”
• Chef Mario Batali: “Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and melts smoother than pre-grated Parmesan.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less thick and creamy. For a richer texture, combine half-and-half with a few tablespoons of butter.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, but it can still work. If you freeze it, reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of cream to help the sauce come back together.

Q4: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta, and ensure all ingredients, especially the sausage and Parmesan, are gluten-free.

Q5: What other cheeses can I use?
While Parmesan is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor.

Enjoy the Comfort of Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

This one-pan creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is the perfect comfort food. With rich flavors, a creamy texture, and minimal prep time, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. Customize it to your taste and serve with extra Parmesan for a meal that’s sure to satisfy!

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