Looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s also quick to make? This One-Pot Sausage Spinach Pasta is your new go-to! Made with bow-tie pasta, savory Italian sausage, vibrant spinach, and a rich tomato sauce, this meal comes together in a single pot — meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this dish brings cozy, homemade vibes to the table without all the fuss. Plus, it’s customizable and totally beginner-friendly. If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful meals with minimal effort, you’re going to love this recipe!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 8 oz bow-tie (farfalle) pasta, cooked al dente
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Colander (to drain pasta)
How to Make One-Pot Sausage Spinach Pasta Recipe
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add the cooked pasta and gently mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Top with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve hot. Enjoy!
Pro Tips For Making This Recipe
- Use hot Italian sausage if you like a little kick, or sweet Italian sausage for a milder version.
- Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when added to the sauce.
- Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce if it feels too thick — it helps it coat the pasta beautifully.
- Fresh spinach works best, but you can use frozen (thawed and drained) in a pinch.
- Customize it by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a splash of cream for a richer finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fusilli all work great in this recipe.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meat-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be! The spice level depends on the type of sausage and whether you add red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste.