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A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy penne pasta topped with sautéed spinach and slices of Italian sausage. The pasta is coated in a rich, glossy sauce, with vibrant green spinach and golden-brown sausage slices adding color contrast. The dish is garnished with a sprinkle of grated cheese and fresh herbs, set against a rustic wooden table.

One-Pan Creamy Penne with Sausage & Spinach: Easy Weeknight Meal!

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Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make One-Pan Creamy Penne with Sausage & Spinach, perfect for busy weeknights. This rich, flavorful dish combines tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce, all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup. Ideal for a quick dinner that satisfies the family and impresses guests with its simplicity and deliciousness.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) of penne pasta
  • 1 lb (450 g) of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped or whole
  • 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later adjustments.
  2. In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary, leaving enough for flavor.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted, creating a creamy, luscious sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  5. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and achieve your desired consistency.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore creaminess. Do not freeze, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
  • Encrypt extra flavor by adding red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving.
  • Feel free to customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Includes Dairy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

Find it online: https://deliciousdailyrecipes.com/one-pan-creamy-penne-with-sausage-spinach-easy-weeknight-meal/