If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s tasty, satisfying, and comes together in about half an hour, this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine perfectly al dente penne tossed with Italian sausage, torn spinach leaves, and a rich tomato sauce that clings to every bite—all finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing dinner guests, or just wanting something extra delicious after a long day, this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe makes dinner feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe lies in its combination of core pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Each plays a vital role, adding bold flavor, crave-worthy texture, or fresh color to your bowl.
- Penne pasta: Classic shape that holds the sauce beautifully and makes every forkful satisfying.
- Olive oil: A drizzle to start the sauté and build a fragrant, flavorful base.
- Italian sausage (casings removed): Infuses the sauce with savory, herby goodness—feel free to use mild or spicy, based on your preference.
- Garlic (minced): Adds that irresistible aroma and depth to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For just the right kick of heat, or leave them out if you prefer mild.
- Crushed tomatoes: Forms a luscious, tangy base for the sauce—it’s what brings everything together.
- Chicken broth: Adds richness and helps the sauce coat the pasta perfectly.
- Dried oregano: Classic Italian flavor that brings warmth and a bit of earthiness.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning—don’t skip these!
- Fresh baby spinach: Wilts right into the sauce, giving each bite a burst of color and nutrition.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in for creaminess and sprinkled on top for that irresistible finishing touch.
- Chopped fresh basil (optional): If you have it, this takes your Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe straight to a restaurant-worthy level.
How to Make Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your penne. Cook according to the package directions until it’s just al dente—don’t overcook! Drain, toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside while you make the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet (the wider, the better) over medium heat. Crumble in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as you cook. In about 6 to 8 minutes, the sausage should be browned and cooked through, filling your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas. This step is key for building the savory base of your Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the minced garlic and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes right into the browned sausage. Let them sizzle for about a minute, just until the garlic becomes aromatic (don’t let it brown). Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, turn the heat to low, and let your sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow those bold flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Toss Pasta
Stir handfuls of fresh baby spinach into the simmering sauce. Watch them wilt down in just a minute or two—this is where your sauce transforms into a nutrient-packed beauty! Add the drained penne and toss everything together so the sauce hugs every piece of pasta.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Serve
Off the heat, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again. You’ll notice everything gets a little creamier and extra savory—yum! Serve your Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe hot, crowned with more Parmesan and a scattering of fresh basil if you have it.
How to Serve Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flourish goes a long way here. Grate more Parmesan over the top just before serving for a melty, salty finish, and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or even some cracked black pepper for a pop of color and aroma. If you want a bit more kick, add another light dusting of red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
This pasta is wonderfully hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad (maybe a classic Caesar or mixed greens with balsamic), warm garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides round out the meal, making it dinner-party ready or extra comforting for a family meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe by plating it in shallow bowls and topping each with a nest of fresh basil. For a fun twist, serve the pasta family-style on a big platter, letting everyone help themselves. Or, try baking it with a bit more cheese under the broiler for a bubbling, golden crust—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe keeps surprisingly well! Place any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s lunch even more delicious than the night before.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. For best texture, try to freeze it without the Parmesan, then add the cheese after reheating. The Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months—super handy for those busy nights when you need dinner in a flash.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly. Finish with a fresh grating of Parmesan and a touch of basil to revive its just-cooked magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Penne is classic, but rigatoni, fusili, or even spaghetti will work beautifully with this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe. Just adjust your cooking time based on the pasta shape.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the sausage for your favorite plant-based crumble or add extra veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for an all-veggie version.
Is this recipe spicy?
It depends on your sausage and how much red pepper flakes you use. Choose sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper for a mild dish, or go hot Italian and double up on the flakes if you love heat!
How can I make this gluten-free?
Easy—just use your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta in place of the regular kind. All other ingredients in the Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe are gluten-free by nature.
Can I prepare it ahead for a party?
Definitely! Make the sauce and pasta in advance, toss them together, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat with a splash of broth, add fresh cheese and basil, and you’ve got an impressive, stress-free party dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of pasta that brings robust flavor, vibrant color, and the effortless ease every home cook appreciates. I hope you give this Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe a try—you might just find it sliding into your regular dinner rotation before you know it. Grab your skillet and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to share!
Print
Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta recipe that is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. This hearty dish combines the richness of Italian sausage with the freshness of spinach and tomatoes, all tossed together with tender penne pasta and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Penne Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Italian Sausage Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 5 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Chopped fresh basil, optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Italian Sausage Mixture: Brown the sausage in olive oil, add garlic and red pepper flakes, then pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Spinach and Finish the Dish: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Combine with cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and mix well. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and basil.
Notes
- You can use turkey sausage for a leaner alternative.
- Opt for gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Enhance with additional veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
