Sausage and Spinach Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that combines the rich, savory flavor of sausage with the freshness of spinach, all tossed in a light, creamy sauce. This hearty pasta dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining guests. The spicy or mild sausage, depending on your preference, pairs beautifully with the tender spinach, while garlic and Parmesan cheese add depth and richness. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Sausage and Spinach Pasta is a comforting, satisfying dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the garlic and spinach: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and spinach. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve immediately.
This Sausage and Spinach Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night, offering a satisfying combination of rich sausage, creamy sauce, and fresh greens.
