This hearty and flavorful pasta dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. The savory Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach are tossed in a rich marinara sauce and paired with your favorite pasta. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (crimini or button mushrooms work well)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside. - Cook the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown (about 5 minutes). - Combine the Ingredients:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). - Toss with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Serve:
Divide the pasta among serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. You can use kale instead of spinach, add a splash of cream for a richer sauce, or experiment with different types of pasta. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!