Ingredients
Scale
Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Don’t have penne? Use whatever pasta you have on hand. And if fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen works just as well—just make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined and the sauce is slightly thickened.
- Add the spinach to the skillet, stirring gently until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your cozy, homemade meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Spinach, recipe, cooking, food
