What kind of sausage is best for skillet pasta?

Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, is a great choice for skillet sausage and spinach pasta. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Remove the sausage from its casing for even browning and distribution throughout the dish.

Can I use frozen spinach in skillet pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the skillet to prevent a watery sauce.

What pasta shapes work well in this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, farfalle (bowties), and cavatappi work best for skillet sausage and spinach pasta. These shapes hold the sauce well and cook evenly.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together in a skillet?

Be sure to use enough liquid (broth, sauce, or water) to properly cook the pasta. Stir the pasta frequently while it's cooking and consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet to help prevent sticking.

Can I add other vegetables to this skillet pasta dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, garlic, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are all excellent additions to skillet sausage and spinach pasta. Add them along with the sausage for optimal flavor.

How long does skillet sausage and spinach pasta last in the fridge?

Skillet sausage and spinach pasta will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Skillet Sausage and Spinach Pasta for Effortless Meal Prep 2026

Name: Skillet Sausage and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 12 ounces short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli); 5 ounces fresh baby spinach; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Skillet Sausage and Spinach Pasta

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A comforting one-pan pasta dish featuring savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and tender pasta simmered in a creamy, garlicky sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner with minimal cleanup. Pairs wonderfully with a simple salad for a complete meal.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 25min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: simmering
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
12 ounces short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until well browned.
Push sausage to the side. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes; stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add uncooked pasta and stir. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Uncover and stir in fresh spinach in handfuls until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and whole milk. Gluten-free pasta works well. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce. Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften off the heat. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 580
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 850
Fat: 30
Saturated Fat: 14
Unsaturated Fat: 14
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 32
Cholesterol: 85

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/skillet-sausage-spinach-pasta/