I enjoy making this creamy garlic butter beef penne when I want a comforting and filling pasta dish that feels indulgent but is still simple to prepare. The creamy sauce, savory beef, flavorful sausage, and tender spinach come together perfectly, making this a meal I always crave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. I get a hearty, satisfying dish that works well for family dinners or casual gatherings. I also appreciate how everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup easy and the cooking process enjoyable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. I drain it and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef and beef sausage until fully browned. I break the meat apart as it cooks and remove any excess grease.
I add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to bring out all the flavors from the pan.
I stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken gently. I season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
I add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts into the sauce. Finally, I mix in the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Servings And Timing
I usually serve this recipe to 6 people.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, and the total time comes to around 40 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use rigatoni or rotini instead of penne for a different texture. When I want a lighter version, I replace half of the heavy cream with milk. I also enjoy adding mushrooms or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave and add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before serving, although I prefer it freshly made.
Can I freeze this pasta?
I usually avoid freezing this dish because creamy sauces can change texture once thawed.
What type of sausage works best?
I prefer using a beef-based Italian-style sausage for the best flavor and texture.
Can I add more vegetables?
I often add mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes when I want extra vegetables.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
I make sure not to overheat the sauce and add a little extra cream or broth if it thickens too much.
Conclusion
I find this creamy garlic butter beef penne with sausage and spinach to be a comforting and flavorful meal that never disappoints. It’s easy to prepare, rich in taste, and perfect for any night when I want something satisfying and homemade.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is a hearty, flavorful one-pan pasta dish combining savory beef, Italian sausage, tender spinach, and penne tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
