Elevate your weeknight meals with this simple yet delicious One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage recipe. Combining the savory flavors of Italian sausage with the creamy richness of a Parmesan-enhanced sauce and the freshness of spinach, this pasta dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for a busy evening, everything cooks in one pan, meaning you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
Effortless Cooking with Maximum Flavor
This one-pan recipe is ideal for those looking for a quick dinner option without compromising on taste or quality. Here’s how to ensure your creamy penne turns out perfectly.
Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pan Pasta
- Brown the Sausage Well: Start by thoroughly browning the Italian sausage, as it builds a flavor base for the entire dish. Make sure it’s nicely caramelized to enhance the savory depth of the meal.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Cook the onion until it’s soft and translucent before adding the garlic. This step ensures that the raw flavor of the garlic cooks out, leaving behind a fragrant base.
- Simmer the Pasta: After adding the broth and cream, make sure to stir the penne into the liquid before covering. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking together and ensures it cooks evenly.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. If the liquid absorbs too quickly and the pasta isn’t done, add a little more broth or water to keep the cooking process smooth.
- Wilt the Spinach Last: Add the spinach towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and texture, giving a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Serving: 4 servings
- Equipment: Large skillet
This quick and tasty dish is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Cook Sausage and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and onion, breaking the sausage into small pieces. Cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and the onions are soft.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Incorporate the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional minute until the mixture is fragrant.
- Simmer Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the penne. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Finish with Spinach and Cheese: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta while hot, offering extra Parmesan cheese as a garnish if desired.
A Delicious End to Any Day
Serve this One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage as a fulfilling dinner that combines ease, comfort, and flavor in one dish. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a hearty meal without the hassle, ensuring that dinner is both stress-free and delicious. Enjoy the blend of creamy pasta, spicy sausage, and fresh greens any night of the week!
