Irresistibly Easy One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

Name: Irresistibly Easy One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any neutral oil); 1 pound Italian Sausage (casings removed); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (fresh preferred); 4 cups Chicken Broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half); 9 ounces Fresh Tortellini (frozen can be used); 4 cups Fresh Spinach (or other leafy greens); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (or Pecorino Romano); to taste Salt and Pepper (Essential for seasoning); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (for spice); 1 cup Mushrooms (sliced, sauté before adding broth)

Published: January 30, 2026

by Clare

Why is this One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta special?

Simplicity meets deliciousness in this easy recipe that requires minimal prep and cleanup.
Quick to prepare, you can serve this comforting dish in just 30 minutes.
Flavor-packed with rich, creamy sauce and hearty sausage, each bite is a warm hug.
Versatile enough for ingredient swaps, you can effortlessly tailor it to your preferences, like using turkey sausage or adding mushrooms.
Perfect for crowds, this dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it an ideal choice for any gathering. Whether paired with a side of warm garlic bread or a light salad like Strawberry Spinach Salad, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table!

One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps brown the sausage; substitute with any neutral oil (e.g., canola).
Italian Sausage – Provides a savory base flavor; use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch (1/8 tsp per clove).
Chicken Broth – Creates the sauce base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream – Gives a luscious texture to the sauce; half-and-half or whole milk can be less rich substitutes.
Fresh Tortellini – The main component of the dish; frozen tortellini can be used with slight adjustments to cooking time.
Fresh Spinach – Adds nutrients and color; substitute with kale or other leafy greens that wilt well.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances creaminess and flavor; can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Optional Textures

Red Pepper Flakes – For a spicy kick; add when cooking the garlic according to your heat preference.
Mushrooms – Adding sliced mushrooms increases depth of flavor and texture; sauté before adding broth for extra taste.

This One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta is your ticket to a cozy dinner, ready in a snap!

How to Make One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. This will give your sausage a nice, crispy exterior.
Brown Sausage: Add the Italian sausage (casings removed) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This should take about 5 minutes, creating a savory aroma.
Sauté Garlic: Next, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, which should take around 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells divine!
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to meld.
Add Tortellini: Toss in the fresh tortellini, cooking according to package directions (approximately 5-7 minutes). Stir gently to ensure even cooking of the pasta.
Fold in Spinach: Once tortellini are nearly cooked, fold in the fresh spinach until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes—this adds great color and nutrients.
Stir in Cheese: Remove the pot from heat, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste for an extra flavor boost.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish with your loved ones!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop and measure your ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the fridge. For maximum flavor retention, pre-cook the Italian sausage and store it separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to whip up dinner, simply sauté the sausage until hot, add the garlic, and continue with the recipe as directed. This way, you’ll still achieve that rich, comforting taste with minimal effort and cleanup—ideal for those hectic weeknights!

Storage Tips for One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the pasta down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta for up to 2 months. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
Avoid Over-Cooling: To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, avoid letting it cool completely before refrigeration; however, ensure food is at room temp prior to sealing for best results.

Expert Tips for One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta

Brown the Sausage Well: Ensure the sausage is browned nicely to develop a rich flavor. Undercooking will result in a greasier dish.
Taste Before Seasoning: Given the saltiness from the sausage and cheese, taste before adding extra salt. This will prevent over-seasoning.
Add Spinach Last: Fold in the spinach at the end to keep it vibrant and prevent overcooking, ensuring it retains some texture and nutrients.
Control the Creaminess: For a lighter version of the One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta, feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk.
Prep Ingredients First: Pre-measuring and chopping your ingredients ahead of time can streamline your cooking process and make it even quicker.
Feel Free to Experiment: The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins for a personalized touch!

What to Serve with One Pot Creamy Spinach and Sausage Tortellini?

To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing this hearty pasta with complementary sides that enhance its delightful flavors.

Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery richness and crunchy texture make it perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. A side of garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, offering a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or zucchini drizzled with olive oil brings color, flavor, and a bit of crunch to the table—plus, they’re easy to prepare!
Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower: This added vegetable will provide a delightful texture and flavor contrast, all while enhancing the dish’s cheesy profile.
Italian Wine: Pairing with a light Italian white, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly—bringing out the savory notes and enhancing your meal.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich and creamy chocolate mousse can wrap up your dinner on a satisfyingly sweet note, delighting the taste buds after the savory main course.

Each of these options will help round out your dinner, creating a memorable meal that your family is sure to love!

One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta Variations

Feel free to customize this comforting dish and make it your own with delightful ingredient twists and substitutions!

Turkey Sausage: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding broth for a rich, umami-packed addition to your pasta.
Creamy Rosé: For a flavorful change, replace half the chicken broth with marinara sauce, creating a lovely pink sauce.
Leafy Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard, ensuring they cook down to tender perfection.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream blend for a vegan-friendly, creamy texture.
Extra Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added layer of flavor and delightful crunch.
Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant finish that brightens the entire dish.
Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, toss in crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic to awaken your taste buds!

One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose ripe spinach?
Absolutely! Look for fresh spinach with vibrant green leaves that are crisp and free from any dark spots. If you see any wilted or yellowing leaves, it’s best to choose another bunch, as those can ruin the freshness of your dish.

How can I store leftovers of the One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled to room temperature before sealing to help maintain its freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water to ensure the sauce remains creamy. For best results, leave some space in the container for expansion.

What if my broth is too salty for the One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta?
Very good question! If your broth is overly salty, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth next time. Additionally, you can balance the flavors by adding a splash of cream or a bit of sugar to counteract the saltiness. Just remember to taste as you go and adjust accordingly!

Is it safe to give leftover pasta to pets?
While plain pasta can be safe in small amounts, it’s important to keep in mind that this One Pot Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta contains ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened up too much, no need to fret! Gradually add a bit more chicken broth or even water while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This should bring your sauce back to a creamy delight!