One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Introduction

One-pan creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, the freshness of spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce that clings to each penne noodle. Not only is this meal incredibly satisfying, but it also comes together in a single skillet, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze.

Overview of the Recipe

This one-pan creamy penne recipe is ideal for those who love creamy pasta dishes but want something quick and low-effort. Cooking the entire meal in one skillet ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a cohesive and robust taste. Italian sausage provides hearty and spicy notes, while spinach brings a mild, earthy balance. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese work together to create a sauce that’s both rich and comforting.

History and Origin

Creamy pasta dishes have their roots in Italian cuisine, with recipes like Alfredo and Carbonara originating in Italy and becoming popular worldwide. This recipe is inspired by similar Italian-American creamy pasta dishes but adds a twist with Italian sausage and spinach. Italian sausage is known for its seasoning, typically featuring garlic, fennel, and sometimes a touch of red pepper, making it a flavorful addition to creamy pasta. Spinach, a popular ingredient in Italian cooking, complements the sausage’s boldness while adding nutritional value.

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)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically around 8-10 minutes).
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sausage:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula.
   • Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sausage is browned and fully cooked.
3. Add Garlic:
   • Stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic burn.
4. Wilt the Spinach:
   • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the sausage mixture.
   • Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and softened.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
   • Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine it with the sausage and spinach.
   • Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring as you go to help it melt smoothly into the cream, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
6. Season the Sauce:
   • Add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
   • Stir well to ensure the sauce is evenly seasoned.
7. Combine with Pasta:
   • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce.
   • Ensure the pasta is well mixed with the sausage, spinach, and sauce.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This creamy penne pasta pairs well with a fresh side salad, such as arugula or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette complements the creaminess and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a drink, a sparkling water infused with lemon or a non-alcoholic apple cider can add a refreshing contrast.

Variations of the Recipe

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
• Different Protein Options: Use turkey or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative, or even cooked chicken breast or shrimp.
• Lighter Cream Sauce: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it may not be as thick.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or use a spicy Italian sausage variety.

Health Benefits Notes

This creamy pasta provides a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs, making it a satisfying meal. The spinach adds fiber, iron, and vitamins like A, C, and K, while Italian sausage contributes protein. The Parmesan cheese offers calcium and some additional protein, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats. Although rich, this dish can be made lighter by substituting lower-fat dairy or using a smaller amount of cream.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess water in the sauce.

Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Q: Can I use another type of pasta? A: Absolutely. This recipe works well with many pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle, which also hold the sauce well.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? A: Yes, use a gluten-free penne or any preferred gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

One-pan creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a deliciously indulgent pasta dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy dinner. With simple steps and just one pan, this recipe captures the essence of Italian-inspired comfort food, blending hearty sausage, nutritious spinach, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re making this for a family meal or a casual gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and easy preparation, and consider customizing it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This one-pan creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish, made with fresh spinach, savory Italian sausage, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights and only uses one pan, making cleanup easy.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

• Cook Pasta: Boil penne pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
• Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add Italian sausage, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (5-7 minutes).
• Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
• Add Spinach: Add spinach to the skillet, cooking until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
• Make Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine, then gradually add Parmesan until the sauce is melted and creamy.
• Season and Combine: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired, then add cooked pasta and mix to coat.
• Serve: Serve warm, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Substitute frozen spinach if needed, but thaw and drain it well.
• Make it spicier with extra red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
• For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-pan
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: creamy sausage pasta, one-skillet penne pasta, spinach and sausage pasta, easy creamy pasta recipe