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- 8 oz penne pasta - 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices - 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish These ingredients create a rich and tasty Tuscan sausage pasta. Each item adds a unique flavor. Penne pasta serves as a hearty base. It holds the sauce well and absorbs the flavors. Italian chicken sausage brings protein and spice. It creates a savory depth that makes each bite satisfying. Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the onion and garlic. Diced onion gives sweetness, while garlic adds a punch of flavor. Together, they create a fragrant base. Diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity. They bring brightness to the dish. Chicken broth enhances the sauce, making it more savory. Spinach adds color and nutrients, making the meal more balanced. Dried oregano gives an earthy note, while red pepper flakes can add heat. Lastly, Parmesan cheese brings creaminess and umami. Fresh basil leaves add a burst of freshness when served. Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal in no time. Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. It usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain it and set it aside. This will be the base for your dish. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic. Stir it for one minute. This step adds a great aroma. Next, add the Italian chicken sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook this for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully browned. Now, add the can of diced tomatoes with juices to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Add the dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes for some heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, toss in the chopped spinach and cooked penne pasta. Mix everything together well. Cook for 2-3 more minutes. This lets the spinach wilt and the flavors blend. Finally, season with salt and black pepper. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed. Remove from heat and serve warm. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and more cheese if you like. Enjoy your meal! Choosing the right sausage is key. I prefer Italian chicken sausage for its flavor and lower fat. Look for fresh sausage with a good spice mix. Check for no fillers or additives. A quality sausage makes a huge difference in taste. Spices bring the dish to life. I add dried oregano for an earthy taste. Red pepper flakes give a kick, but use them to your liking. Fresh herbs, like basil, add brightness at the end. Don't forget to taste as you go to find the perfect balance. Cooking pasta correctly is important. Use a large pot with plenty of water. Salt the water well before adding pasta. This helps the pasta absorb flavor. Cook until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the skillet. Drain it, but don’t rinse; you want that starch to help sauce stick. {{image_2}} If you're looking for substitutes, I have some great options. For a gluten-free version, swap penne pasta with gluten-free pasta. You can also use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter meal. If you need a dairy-free dish, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. These swaps keep the meal tasty while fitting your diet. You can easily boost the nutrition by adding more veggies. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions for extra flavor. If you want more protein, add cooked chickpeas or lentils. They soak up the sauce well and add great texture. While I love penne, feel free to use other pasta shapes. Fusilli, rotini, or farfalle work nicely too. The key is to choose a pasta that holds onto the sauce. This makes each bite delicious and satisfying. Experiment with your favorites and enjoy a new twist on this classic dish! After enjoying your Tuscan sausage pasta, store leftovers in an airtight container. Allow the dish to cool down before sealing. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. For best results when reheating, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each. Enjoy your meal just as tasty as the first time! Tuscan sausage pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. When you want to eat it, just reheat it well. Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook it fully and cool it down. Store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just heat it back up. You can serve this pasta with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A light green salad goes well with the rich flavors. Garlic bread adds a nice crunch and taste. For drinks, try a light white wine or sparkling water. This blog post covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Tuscan sausage pasta. I shared how to choose the best sausage and improve flavor with spices. You learned about variations, storage, and answers to common questions. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty meal anytime. Enjoy experimenting and sharing your pasta dishes with friends and family!

Tuscan Sausage Pasta Skillet

Indulge in a delicious Tuscan Sausage Pasta Skillet that’s as easy to make as it is to savor! This one-pan meal combines Italian chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and zesty tomatoes for a flavorful dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Explore the full recipe now, and treat your family to a taste of Tuscany tonight!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside when done.

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

      Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

        Stir in the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

          Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

            Once the mixture starts to simmer, add in the chopped spinach and cooked penne pasta. Toss to combine everything evenly.

              Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the spinach wilt and the flavors meld together.

                Season with salt, black pepper, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

                  Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and more Parmesan cheese if desired.

                    Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4