One-Pan Creamy Penne with Spinach and Italian Sausage

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (typically around 8-10 minutes).
    • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Sausage:
    • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula.
    • Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sausage is browned and fully cooked.
  3. Add Garlic:
    • Stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic burn.
  4. Wilt the Spinach:
    • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the sausage mixture.
    • Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and softened.
  5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
    • Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine it with the sausage and spinach.
    • Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring as you go to help it melt smoothly into the cream, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
  6. Season the Sauce:
    • Add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
    • Stir well to ensure the sauce is evenly seasoned.
  7. Combine with Pasta:
    • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce.
    • Ensure the pasta is well mixed with the sausage, spinach, and sauce.
  8. Serve:
    • Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

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