Creamy Sausage Pasta

If you’re looking for a satisfying, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Sausage Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! It combines tender penne pasta with savory Italian sausage, a rich Parmesan cream sauce, and fresh baby spinach for a dish that’s both indulgent and well-balanced.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a cozy date night, or a family gathering, this easy yet elegant pasta dish will impress everyone at the table. The best part? It’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Sauce: The sauce comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Creamy & Comforting: The rich and velvety Parmesan sauce makes this dish ultra-satisfying.
• Customizable: You can swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Creamy Sausage Pasta, you’ll need:

• 1 lb. ground Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy—your choice!)
• 1 lb. penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, minced
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 oz. fresh baby spinach (about 3 cups, tightly packed)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Slotted spoon
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Cook the ground Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns (about 5 minutes).
   • Once fully cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside.
   • Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet.
   • Add the minced onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 2–3 minutes).
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
   • Pour in chicken broth or dry white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream.
   • Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Bring to a gentle simmer.
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
   • Add baby spinach and stir until wilted.
   • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
   • Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
   • Dish out the pasta while it’s hot.
   • Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper, if desired.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Lighten it Up: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
• Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes work great in this dish.
• Use a Different Pasta: This sauce pairs well with rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine.
• Swap the Protein: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different take on the dish.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: While the sauce may separate slightly, you can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

This Creamy Sausage Pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery slice is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad balances out the richness.
• Wine Pairing: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy, savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage? Absolutely! If using pre-cooked sausage, slice it into rounds and heat it with the onions and garlic.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? Avoid boiling the cream sauce at high heat—keep it at a gentle simmer.

Try This Recipe Today!

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish with rich, savory flavors, this Creamy Sausage Pasta is a must-try! It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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