A rich, creamy one-pan pasta dish with tender penne, savory Italian sausage, wilted spinach, and parmesan — ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
3½ cups chicken broth
¾ cup heavy cream
4 cups fresh spinach
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook sausage until browned. Remove excess fat if needed.
Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes.
Add penne and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Cook 12–14 minutes until pasta is al dente.
Stir in cream and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
Remove from heat, stir in parmesan. Adjust seasoning.
Serve warm, topped with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra veggies.
Reheats well for up to 3 days.