Introduction
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with the hearty satisfaction of pasta. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal cleanup while delivering a restaurant-quality meal. Packed with tender penne, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe features penne pasta cooked directly in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth and heavy cream, absorbing all the savory goodness. The addition of sautéed onions, garlic, and Italian sausage adds depth and richness, while fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese provide balance and creaminess. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is a true lifesaver for time-crunched dinners.
History and Origin
While pasta with cream sauces has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, this one-pan preparation is a modern twist designed for convenience without compromising on flavor. The simplicity of cooking the pasta in the same pan as the sauce has made this style of recipe a favorite for home cooks seeking efficiency and delicious results.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Italian sausage: 1 pound (mild or spicy), casings removed
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken broth: 2 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 ½ cups
- Penne pasta: 12 ounces, uncooked
- Fresh spinach: 3 cups
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Create the Sauce Base:
- Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor to the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Stir the uncooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the pasta cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Once the pasta is cooked, return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the fresh spinach and stir until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and combines with the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy penne hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Standalone Meal: This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own.
- With Bread: Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- With Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter pairing.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian Version:
- Omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free Option:
- Use gluten-free penne pasta, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Lighter Cream Sauce:
- Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
- Cheesy Upgrade:
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or Asiago cheese for an extra cheesy sauce.
- Seafood Twist:
- Replace the sausage with cooked shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation.
Health Benefits Notes
- Spinach: A powerhouse of nutrients, spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, supporting bone health and immunity.
- Italian Sausage: Provides protein and flavor but can be replaced with leaner options like turkey sausage for a healthier alternative.
- Garlic and Onion: Both are excellent sources of antioxidants and have immune-boosting properties.
- Pasta: A great source of energy, especially when balanced with protein and vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based pasta dishes generally don’t freeze well as the sauce can separate upon reheating. If freezing, consider doing so before adding the heavy cream and Parmesan, then finish the recipe after thawing.
3. What other pasta shapes can I use?
Short pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or farfalle work well as substitutes for penne.
4. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.
Conclusion
One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage is a quick and satisfying recipe that combines the convenience of one-pot cooking with the indulgence of a creamy pasta dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a versatile meal that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup!