One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

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This One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage came about on a chilly evening when I was craving something hearty, comforting, and full of flavor without dirtying up a mountain of dishes. I had some sweet Italian sausage in the fridge, a half-bag of fresh spinach wilting on the shelf, and a pantry full of pasta. And like most of my spontaneous creations, it came together in one pan and left me wondering why I ever cook any other way.

The first bite took me straight to flavor heaven. The richness of the creamy sauce, the savory kick of Italian sausage, and the freshness from spinach all melded into each bite of perfectly cooked penne. It’s the kind of dinner that silences the table as everyone goes back for seconds. And the best part? There’s no pile of dishes to dread afterward.

What I also love about this recipe is how easily it scales. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a hungry family, it adjusts like a dream. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, yet indulgent enough to impress guests. If you’re a fan of cozy pasta dinners like my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or even the boldness of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’re going to fall in love with this one too.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

This dish hits all the right notes. First off, it’s made in a single pan, meaning less mess and less cleanup. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, and each bite offers the perfect balance of tender pasta, earthy greens, and juicy sausage. The flavor depth is impressive considering the simplicity of the ingredients. It’s also customizable, forgiving, and made with ingredients that are easy to find, if not already in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a total beginner, this one pan creamy penne is about to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Penne Pasta
The star of this recipe, penne holds the creamy sauce perfectly in every hollow. Choose a quality pasta to get that perfect al dente bite.

Italian Sausage
Sweet or spicy, the sausage infuses the dish with depth and richness. I love using sweet sausage for a balanced flavor, but spicy works great if you’re craving a kick.

Fresh Spinach
Not only does it add a pop of color, but spinach brings freshness that cuts through the richness. It wilts beautifully into the sauce.

Heavy Cream
Essential for the luscious creamy texture. It coats the pasta and binds all the ingredients into one harmonious bite.

Garlic
Just a few cloves are enough to boost the savory notes and deepen the sauce’s flavor.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds umami and a salty edge that perfectly balances the creaminess. Freshly grated is best.

Chicken Broth
Used to cook the pasta directly in the pan, it adds flavor and enhances the creamy sauce.

Olive Oil & Butter
These are the foundation for sautéing the sausage and garlic and add a smooth, rich base.

Salt and Pepper
To season the dish at each layer, enhancing all the ingredients without overpowering them.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil and cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it into bite-sized chunks. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked penne, chicken broth, and heavy cream directly into the pan. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the sausage. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Sausage

Return the cooked sausage to the pan and add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and incorporates into the creamy pasta.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Season

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while the pasta is creamy and hot. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use whole milk with a touch of flour for thickening. Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or even frozen greens if that’s what you have. You can also use plant-based sausage to keep it meat-free or try ground chicken or turkey for a leaner take. Love a little heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is rich and comforting on its own, but a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette balances it beautifully. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread makes it a more indulgent meal. For drinks, try a chilled Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon to cut through the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating, as the cream can separate.

FAQs

Can I make One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream before serving.

What kind of sausage works best in One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage?

Sweet Italian sausage is my favorite for this dish, but spicy or mild versions also work well. You can even use chicken or turkey sausage.

Can I use frozen spinach in One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage?

Absolutely. Just thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it in. It won’t have the same pop of color but tastes just as good.

How do I keep the sauce creamy in One Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage?

Avoid high heat once the cream is added. Simmer gently and stir frequently. Adding the cheese at the end off heat helps maintain smoothness.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this pasta won your heart, be sure to try my Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach and Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts next.

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