Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious? Look no further than this Simple Sausage Parmesan Pasta Skillet! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering Italian feast that will have your family asking for seconds. With savory Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan cheese, and vibrant spinach all nestled in perfectly cooked penne pasta, this recipe is a one-pan wonder that balances flavor and convenience. Get ready to impress your taste buds and make mealtime a breeze!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of penne pasta, 1 lb of sliced Italian sausage, 1 cup of marinara sauce, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced Italian sausage to the skillet.
- Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
- While the sausage is cooking, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- After the sausage is fully cooked, add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and sausage.
- Next, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Serve the Simple Sausage Parmesan Pasta Skillet warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, slice the Italian sausage and wash the spinach before you start cooking. This way, everything is ready to go when you need it!
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente. This will ensure it holds up well when mixed with the sauce and sausage, giving you the perfect texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding minced garlic or red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage. This will add depth and a hint of heat to your dish.
- Cheese Choices: While grated Parmesan cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pecorino for a different twist on flavor.
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day!
- Garnish Wisely: Don’t forget to garnish your pasta with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 674kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
