Description
This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines tender penne pasta with savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce and Meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables
- 5 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later use.
- Brown Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the sausage and garlic, cooking until the spinach wilts. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend with the mixture in the skillet. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season and Combine: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Then fold in the cooked penne pasta, mixing well so that the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy penne warm, optionally garnished with additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to not overcook the spinach; it should be just wilted to retain its bright color and nutrients.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields a better melt and richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
