Creamy penne pasta with sausage and fresh spinach in a skillet, garnished with Parmesan cheese

Creamy Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

by

Introduction

Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is the ultimate comfort meal that combines savory, satisfying flavors with the ease of a one-pan dish. This pasta recipe features hearty Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked penne coated in a luscious, creamy sauce. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish is simple yet impressive, packed with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes. Its versatility makes it easy to adjust to different tastes and dietary needs. Serve it on its own or with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. Let’s get started with the ingredients needed to bring this delicious pasta dish to your table!

Ingredients Needed

To make Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta:

  • Penne Pasta (12 oz): Any short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle also works well.
  • Italian Sausage (12 oz, sliced): Choose mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Remove from casing if using sausage links.
  • Fresh Spinach (3 cups): Adds freshness and color to the dish.

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • Heavy Cream (1 cup): For a rich and creamy texture.
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): For a cheesy, savory note that thickens the sauce.
  • Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the sausage and garlic.
  • Chicken Broth (½ cup): Helps thin out the sauce slightly while adding flavor.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp): For a spicy kick.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes (¼ cup, chopped): Adds a sweet, tangy flavor.
  • Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Sautéed with the sausage for an earthy addition.

Ingredient Tips:

  • Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor, or use chicken sausage for a lighter option.
  • Cream Substitutes: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious, satisfying Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach:

Cook the Pasta

  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 12 oz of penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Brown the Sausage

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the 12 oz of sliced Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Garlic and Optional Vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. If using optional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, add them at this stage and sauté until softened.

Make the Creamy Sauce

  • Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’d like a bit of heat, add ½ tsp of red pepper flakes.

Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Spinach

  • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Add 3 cups of fresh spinach and toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

 Serve

  • Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh black pepper if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal!

Customization Ideas

Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some creative customization ideas:

1. Swap the Sausage

  • Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option that still delivers great flavor.
  • Try spicy chorizo for a smoky, spicy kick, or use vegan sausage to make the dish plant-based.

2. Experiment with Greens

  • Replace spinach with kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for a slightly different flavor and texture.
  • Add a handful of fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of herbaceous freshness.

3. Add More Veggies

  • Incorporate sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrients and color.
  • Add cherry tomatoes for a sweet and juicy contrast to the creamy sauce.

4. Use Different Cheeses

  • Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
  • Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or fontina to make the sauce even creamier and extra cheesy.

5. Make it Dairy-Free

  • Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Use a plant-based cheese substitute or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

6. Spice It Up

  • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Include a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to bring more depth and spice to the sauce.

These customization options let you personalize Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach to suit your palate, making it a flexible and exciting dish to make again and again.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta

Creating the perfect creamy pasta requires a few simple techniques to ensure the sauce is smooth, flavorful, and well-balanced. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Prevent the Sauce from Curdling

  • When making a cream-based sauce, cook over medium heat and avoid boiling. High heat can cause the cream to separate, resulting in a less smooth texture. Simmer gently for the best consistency.

2. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and blends more smoothly into the sauce than pre-grated versions, which often contain anti-caking agents. It also provides a richer, more intense flavor.

3. Save Some Pasta Water

  • Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Adding pasta water to the sauce helps bind it to the pasta and enhances the creaminess due to the starches in the water.

4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

  • Cook the penne al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue to cook when combined with the hot sauce. Overcooked pasta may become mushy, so check it a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.

5. Season Gradually

  • Taste the sauce before adding salt, as the Parmesan and sausage already contribute a lot of flavor. Adjust as needed for a well-balanced, seasoned dish.

Following these tips will ensure your Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach turns out perfectly creamy and delicious every time.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are a few serving ideas:

1. Bread:

  • Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce and add a delightful crunch.
  • Try with a side of buttery dinner rolls for a soft, comforting accompaniment.

2. Salad:

  • Pair with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • A Caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella makes a flavorful and colorful side.

3. Wine Pairing:

  • A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and adds brightness to the dish.
  • For red wine lovers, a Chianti or Sangiovese pairs well with the savory flavors in the sausage.

These serving suggestions will round out your Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach ahead of time. For best results, cook the pasta, sausage, and sauce separately, then combine just before serving. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat everything together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.

2. What’s the best way to reheat creamy pasta without it separating?
To reheat creamy pasta, use low heat and add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or separating. Stir frequently and heat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze this pasta, creamy sauces can sometimes change in texture after thawing. If you decide to freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat gently with a bit of extra liquid.

These FAQs cover common questions, making it easier to prepare, store, and enjoy your Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach.

Conclusion

Creamy Penne Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a delicious, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its savory sausage, fresh spinach, and rich, creamy sauce coating every bite of pasta, this meal strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and flavor. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining. Try making this dish at home, and don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it—whether by adding extra veggies, experimenting with different cheeses, or adjusting the spice level. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Be sure to leave a comment below to share your experience and any creative twists you added. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment