Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat if necessary.
Add onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add broth, cream, and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine. Add the uncooked penne and stir again, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.
Simmer the pasta: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add spinach and Parmesan: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking until the spinach is wilted, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
How to Prepare
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Begin by browning the Italian sausage, then add onions and garlic for added depth. The pasta, broth, and cream simmer together in one pan, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that infuses into the penne as it cooks. Adding the spinach and Parmesan at the end provides color, texture, and richness, resulting in a balanced, delicious dish.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves approximately 4.
FAQs
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale or arugula make excellent substitutes, adding a different flavor profile to the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Substitute the sausage with vegetarian Italian sausage or omit it altogether, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Short pasta like rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni works well and will cook similarly to penne.
Conclusion
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is the perfect balance of ease and flavor. This one-pan wonder is rich and creamy, with a harmonious blend of savory sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant spinach. Ideal for busy nights or comforting meals, this dish comes together quickly with minimal cleanup, making it a winner every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this creamy penne is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy!
