One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy dinner recipe, look no further than this One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and rich Italian sausage, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, saving you time on cleanup without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sausage creates a luxurious, comforting sauce.
  • Nutritious: Fresh spinach adds a boost of greens, perfectly complementing the dish’s rich flavors.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious one-pan pasta dish:

  • For the Base:
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • For the Sauce and Pasta:
    • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
    • 3 cups chicken broth
    • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • For the Creamy Finish:
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    • 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Continue until it’s browned and fully cooked.
  3. Add the Onion and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and fragrant.

2. Simmer the Sauce and Cook the Pasta

  1. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the penne pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the Creamy Ingredients

  1. Reduce Heat and Add Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Incorporate Spinach: Add the chopped spinach, cooking until it’s wilted and well combined.
  3. Mix in Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

4. Season and Serve

  • Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve Hot: Dish up this comforting pasta while it’s warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Cook the Pasta Evenly: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality Parmesan cheese elevate the dish’s flavor.
  • Customize the Spice: If you prefer a bit of heat, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet with a lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Variations to Try

  1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
  2. Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or arugula for a slightly different flavor.
  3. Alternative Pasta: Use rigatoni, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta as a substitute for penne.

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

  • Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
  • Simple Salad: A side salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
  • Wine: Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes! Slice or crumble pre-cooked sausage and sauté briefly before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream and use a plant-based Parmesan substitute.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing may alter the texture of the pasta and cream sauce.

A One-Pan Dinner to Savor

One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With its creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and vibrant spinach, it’s a dish you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation.

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