Italian Sausage Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Sausage Pasta is an easy, 30-minute meal that combines savory sausage, fresh spinach, crimini mushrooms, and tangy tomato sauce with bow-tie pasta. The balance of rich flavors and hearty textures makes it a delicious and comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe provides a quick, satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Whether you're craving Italian flavors or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients

• 15 oz crumbled Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 8 oz bow-tie pasta (farfalle)

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach)

• 1 cup sliced crimini mushrooms (or any mushrooms of choice)

• 1 ½ cups tomato marinara sauce

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the mushrooms until tender, about 5 minutes, and remove them from the skillet.

3. In the same skillet, add the crumbled sausage and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it into pieces. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the sausage. Cook for another minute.

5. Stir in the tomato marinara sauce and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well. Top with cooked mushrooms before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Total time: 30 minutes.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

• Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

• Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or any vegetable you prefer to the skillet.

• Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage and add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe spicy?

You can use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to the dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bow-tie pasta works well, any pasta shape you prefer can be substituted.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Omit the sausage and use plant-based sausage or tofu for a vegetarian option.

What type of sausage should I use?

You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your preference. Crumbled sausage works best.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Can I add cheese to this pasta?

Yes, feel free to top it with Parmesan or mozzarella cheese when serving.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking for the family or a group of friends, this dish is sure to be a hit.