Sausage and Spinach Penne Pasta

Looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights? This Sausage and Spinach Penne Pasta recipe is just what you need. With juicy sausage, tender pasta, and fresh spinach, this one-pan meal is both indulgent and wholesome—everything a great dinner should be.

Ingredients for Sausage and Spinach Penne Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this mouthwatering dish to life:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled (hot or mild)

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)

• Colander (for draining pasta)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Chef’s knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

2: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes), breaking it apart if using crumbled sausage.

3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving any drippings in the skillet.

3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced bell pepper.

2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

3. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4: Add Tomatoes and Cream

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices.

2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.

3. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5: Add Spinach and Combine

1. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).

2. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix well.

3. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat with the sauce.

4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

6: Season and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

2. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Sausage and Spinach Pasta Dinner

• Use quality sausage: Whether spicy or mild, a good Italian sausage makes all the difference in flavor.

• Reserve pasta water: It contains starch and helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Don’t skip this trick!

• Make it creamy or light: Use heavy cream for richness, or swap it with evaporated milk or half-and-half for a lighter touch.

• Add more greens: Feel free to add kale, arugula, or zucchini to increase the veggie content.

• Customize the heat: Skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish, or double them for extra spice.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving – serves 4)

• Calories: 620

• Protein: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fat: 35g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 860mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the sausage and cream used.

Why This Sausage and Spinach Pasta Is the Ultimate Dinner Choice

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s a delicious blend of savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, and al dente pasta—finished off with a creamy, cheesy sauce that ties it all together. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

When planning your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick, flavorful, comforting, and versatile. What more could you ask for?

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, this Sausage and Spinach Penne Pasta is your ticket to something fresh, hearty, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.