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Easy Weeknight Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet

A close-up of creamy chicken sausage pasta featuring penne, sliced sausage, and wilted spinach in a rich sauce.

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Prepare this simple, one-pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet. It delivers rich, comforting flavor perfect for busy weeknights and uses easy-to-find ingredients for a budget-friendly meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken sausage into rounds. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the dry penne pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat.
  5. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 minutes.
  7. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the sauce.
  8. Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for a quick dinner.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes when you add the garlic.

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