There’s something so satisfying about a one-pan dinner that feels gourmet but comes together in a snap. This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage checks every box: it’s rich, comforting, and bursting with vibrant colors. You’ve got the warm glow of melted Parmesan cheese weaving through ribbons of creamy sauce, the tender bite of al dente penne pasta, and bright pops of fresh spinach tucked into every forkful. If you love an easy pasta dish that feels indulgent yet totally doable on a busy weeknight, this recipe is your new best friend.
Beyond its simplicity, this dish brings together contrasting textures and flavors in the best way. Juicy Italian sausage, whether you go mild or spicy, adds a savory punch that dances with sautéed onions and garlic. The acidity of diced tomatoes and the depth from chicken broth form the perfect base for a velvety heavy-cream sauce. As the pasta simmers right in that same skillet, it soaks up all those delicious juices, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Cleanup is a breeze—no need to juggle multiple pots and pans. With a mix of hearty goodness, vibrant greens, and luscious sauce, this One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is destined to become a weeknight favorite.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-PAN CREAMY PENNE WITH SPINACH AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE
Before you fire up the stove, let’s talk about the flavor-makers behind this cozy pasta dish. Each ingredient plays a special role, contributing layers of taste and texture that turn simple pantry staples into a memorable meal.
- Penne pasta
A sturdy tube-shaped pasta that holds onto creamy sauce in its ridges, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor.
- Olive oil
The foundation for sautéing, it adds a fruity note and prevents ingredients from sticking to the pan.
- Italian sausage
Packs a punch of savory, spiced flavor; you can choose mild for a gentle warmth or spicy for an extra kick.
- Onion
Brings a natural sweetness and depth when diced and softened, forming part of the aromatic base.
- Garlic
Infuses the oil with a fragrant, garlicky aroma that complements both tomato and cream.
- Diced tomatoes
Contribute bright acidity and chunky texture, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Chicken broth
Provides a flavorful liquid to cook the pasta in, turning ordinary water into a taste-packed base.
- Heavy cream
Delivers that signature silky texture and richness that makes the sauce velvety and indulgent.
- Fresh spinach
Adds vibrant color and a gentle leafy bite, plus a boost of nutrients to the dish.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning; salt heightens flavors, while pepper adds a subtle heat.
- Parmesan cheese
Brings a nutty, salty finish that melts into the sauce, tying everything together.
- Red pepper flakes
Optional garnish for a hint of fiery heat and visual interest.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-PAN CREAMY PENNE WITH SPINACH AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the step-by-step process for transforming ordinary ingredients into a restaurant-style meal, all cooked in a single skillet. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce.
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon so each piece gets crisp edges and deep flavor.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic releases its fragrance, about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir gently, then bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to heat through.
4. Add the penne pasta to the skillet, stirring to ensure each piece is submerged in the simmering liquid. This technique infuses the pasta directly with all those tomato-infused flavors.
5. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick and check for a perfectly al dente texture.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add the fresh spinach and stir gently until it wilts, about 2–3 minutes, folding it into the sauce until bright green leaves soften.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir briskly until it fully melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy finish.
8. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat. Dig in right away to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-PAN CREAMY PENNE WITH SPINACH AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE
When it’s time to bring this hearty pasta to the table, a few thoughtful touches can elevate your meal from delicious to unforgettable. Serving this dish with the right accompaniments turns a simple dinner into a full-on feast. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these suggestions will help you present your One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage in style and maximize every aspect of the dining experience.
- Serve in warmed bowls
Ladle the creamy penne into pre-warmed serving bowls to keep it hot longer. A quick spin of the bowl before plating helps the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
- Add a fresh side salad
Pair with a crisp arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon juice. The peppery greens cut through the richness and add a refreshing crunch.
- Offer garlic bread or focaccia
Toast slices of garlic bread until golden and spread with herb-butter, perfect for soaking up every last drop of creamy sauce.
- Pair with Italian Chianti or Sauvignon Blanc
A fruity Chianti brings out the savory sausage notes, while a crisp Sauvignon Blanc highlights the brightness of the spinach and tomatoes.
HOW TO STORE ONE-PAN CREAMY PENNE WITH SPINACH AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE
Leftovers of this rich, creamy pasta can be just as delightful as the fresh batch—provided you store them properly. With a few simple strategies, you can preserve that silky sauce and tender penne so your meal tastes as good the next day as it did when it was first served.
- Refrigeration in airtight containers
Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, keeping flavors locked in and preventing dryness.
- Freeze for longer storage
Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain that creamy consistency.
- Gentle reheating
Rewarm in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Heat until just warmed through to avoid overcooking the spinach.
- Separate sauce and pasta (optional)
For ultimate freshness, you can store the pasta and sauce separately. Keep the pasta in one container and the sauce in another, then combine and gently reheat on the stove for a just-cooked taste.
CONCLUSION
What started as a simple idea—combining pasta, sausage, greens, and cream in one pan—turns into a soul-warming dinner that feels special and effortless all at once. This One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor. Every element, from the savory punch of Italian sausage to the fresh burst of spinach, works in harmony in a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce. It’s a beginner-friendly dish that delivers restaurant-quality vibes, making it ideal for weeknight meals, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for busy days ahead.
Feel free to print this article or save it to your favorite recipe folder so it’s always within reach when you need a quick dinner solution. You’ll find a handy FAQ below for any extra tips or troubleshooting, ensuring you’ve got all the answers you need. If you give this creamy penne a try, let me know how it went! Share your feedback, ask questions if you need help, or tell me about any delicious twists you made. Your kitchen stories and cooking triumphs are what keep this culinary conversation thriving, and I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage
Description
This creamy penne dish is bursting with flavors, featuring juicy Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce that's perfect for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
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Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the can of diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the penne pasta to the skillet and stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
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Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the spinach and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
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Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Note
- This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- For added flavor, try using a mix of hot and sweet Italian sausages.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to absorb some of the liquid.
- The dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad and a glass of Italian Chianti.
