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One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

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This one-pan creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish made in a single skillet. With rich sausage, tender pasta, and a smooth cream sauce, it’s a perfect weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
  • 12 oz penne pasta (dry)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up as it browns.
  2. Once sausage is nearly cooked, add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the dry penne pasta.
  4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed.
  5. Once pasta is tender, stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
  6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  7. Serve hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Substitute penne with other short pastas like rigatoni or fusilli.
  • Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for variety.
  • Use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
  • Reheat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/one-pan-creamy-penne-with-spinach-and-italian-sausage/