Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

If you love rich, indulgent pasta dishes that comfort your soul and bring a smile to your face, this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is absolutely a must-try. Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with savory ground beef and flavorful Italian sausage, all brightened up by fresh, vibrant spinach. Every bite bursts with layers of creamy goodness and satisfying textures, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to cook again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this dish lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one brings its own unique touch—whether it’s the hearty protein, the aromatic garlic, the fresh green spinach, or the silky creamy sauce—all blending to create a comforting, memorable meal.

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta: The perfect shape to trap the creamy sauce with every forkful.
• 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef: Adds rich, savory depth and protein to the dish.
• 1/2 lb (225 g) Italian sausage, casings removed: Brings an extra layer of spiced flavor and juiciness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for browning the meats and sautéing the vegetables smoothly.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with its irresistible, aromatic punch.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: Offers a fresh, healthy contrast and vibrant color to the creamy dish.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory base flavor when cooked down.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: The foundation of the creamy garlic butter sauce, giving it that silky richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that ties everything together.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a nutty, salty finish that elevates the sauce’s flavor.
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat kick if you like a touch of spice.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the dish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Brightens the plate and adds a fresh herbal note.
• Extra Parmesan cheese (optional garnish): Perfect for sprinkling on top for an extra cheesy finish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—this means it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest. Cooking the pasta perfectly ensures it won’t turn mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until the meats are beautifully browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat in the pan, feel free to drain some off to keep the dish from becoming greasy while preserving all those amazing flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the cooked meats. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Then stir in the fresh spinach, cooking just until it wilts down to a bright, vibrant green. This step makes sure the veggies are tender but still hold their freshness, balancing the rich components perfectly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt completely, then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you like, crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy note. This sauce is the heart of the dish and the key to that unforgettable Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach flavor.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Now, add the cooked penne pasta straight into the skillet with the sauce, meats, and spinach. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce and perfectly mixed with the flavorful ingredients. This final step is when the dish truly comes together, marrying all those tastes and textures beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Dish out generous portions onto plates. If you want to go the extra mile, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and a little more Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and savor the creamy, garlicky bliss with every bite. Trust me—you’ll feel like sharing this comforting delight with everyone you know.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach

Garnishes

Fresh parsley leaves add a lovely pop of green as well as a hint of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese brings that irresistible salty, creamy finish that makes each serving feel extra special. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a few red pepper flakes on top complement the flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

For a balanced meal, pair this hearty dish with a simple crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm crusty breadsticks are also fantastic to help scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce. Steamed or roasted veggies such as broccoli or asparagus provide a fresh, nutritious contrast to the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach in a large pasta bowl garnished with whole parsley sprigs and a Parmesan wedge on the side. Alternatively, bake the assembled pasta briefly in the oven with extra mozzarella on top for a bubbly, golden crust that adds delightful texture. You can even plate individual servings with a drizzle of good quality olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an elegant finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach tastes just as delightful the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop and deepen, making the dish even more comforting after chilling.

Freezing

If you want to keep this creamy pasta on hand longer, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s smooth texture.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, use a skillet over low to medium heat and add a splash of cream, milk, or broth as needed to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the luscious sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just cook according to package directions and adjust mixing time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and sausage, then add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for heartiness. You can also use plant-based sausage alternatives to maintain the savory flavors.

How can I make the sauce lighter?

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and reduce the butter slightly. The sauce will still be tasty but less rich and creamy.

Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and meat mixture ahead and refrigerate separately. When ready to serve, make the sauce fresh, then combine everything just before heating through. This saves time without sacrificing flavor.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, simply stir in a splash of pasta cooking water, milk, or broth to loosen it. This keeps the sauce silky and well-coated on the pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach recipe truly shines as a comfort food classic that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the ultimate dish to cozy up with on a weeknight or impress friends at your next dinner. Once you make it, I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to meals that brings warmth and satisfaction with every delicious bite. So why wait? Grab those ingredients and start cooking your own creamy garlic butter bliss today!