A quick and delicious One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Not only is it packed with bold flavors, but it also requires minimal cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
- Flavorful Goodness: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by using different vegetables or types of sausage based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy pasta dish that’s packed with nutrients.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop flavors as ingredients sauté together.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface while providing a sturdy grip.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and spinach quick and safe.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (garnish)
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spice
Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, which usually takes about 1 minute.
Step 3: Incorporate Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and add the heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the penne pasta, cover the skillet, and cook for about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking until pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cheese
Mix in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste before serving.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Serving One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is simple yet delightful. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings a variety of flavors that can be enhanced with some thoughtful serving suggestions.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley or Basil: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
Add Extra Protein
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a protein boost, top individual servings with grilled chicken strips or shrimp.
Include a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta well.
Offer Parmesan Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese for those who love an additional cheesy flavor.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Personalized Servings: Present the dish in individual bowls for a restaurant-style experience.
How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Perfecting your One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage can elevate your cooking game. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.
- Use Quality Sausage: Select high-quality Italian sausage for a more intense flavor.
- Adjust Creaminess: Alter the amount of heavy cream based on how creamy you want your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Ensure the penne is al dente; it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Stir Frequently: Stirring occasionally prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Fresh Spinach Only: Opt for fresh spinach over frozen for better texture and taste.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper at different stages.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Pairing sides with your One-Pan Creamy Penne can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add nutrition and color to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
- Bruschetta: Crisp toasted bread topped with tomatoes and garlic makes a delightful appetizer.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch without overpowering flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats offers variety and richness.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette cleanses the palate nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy complement to the dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are a hearty side that pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the dish’s flavor or texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the sausage quality – Using low-quality sausage can result in a bland dish. Opt for a good brand of Italian sausage, whether mild or spicy, to enhance the flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the penne too long can lead to mushiness. Ensure you follow the cooking time closely and check for al dente texture.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments – Not tasting your dish before serving may leave it under-seasoned. Always adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients – Using wilted or old spinach can detract from the freshness of your meal. Make sure your spinach is fresh for the best results.
- Not stirring enough – Failing to stir the pasta can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Stir occasionally during cooking for even consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
- Freeze in portions within airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easier organization.
Reheating One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warm.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne with any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage, replace sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I serve alongside this meal?
Serve this creamy penne with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Is it possible to customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or experiment with different cheese options like mozzarella or feta.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is an incredibly versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to satisfy your cravings. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping proteins!
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. This quick and delicious dish combines al dente penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With minimal cleanup required, you can whip up this comforting meal in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a hearty dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, this recipe allows for easy customization to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it up for the family or hosting friends, this one-pan wonder will impress and delight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add penne pasta, cover skillet, and cook for 10–12 minutes until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in chopped spinach until wilted, then add grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
