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–+ servings
Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage Magic

This creamy penne with spinach and Italian sausage is a quick and delicious dinner option that transforms weeknight meals into something special.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Dish
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute.
  • 12 ounces Italian Sausage Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or coconut milk can be alternatives.
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Kale or arugula can be used for different flavors.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Swap with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the penne pasta and stir to coat, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
  6. Stir in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and cheese melts.
  7. Taste and season with salt and black pepper before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Choosing fresh ingredients enhances the flavor. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

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