Skillet Penne and Sausage Supper
Try this recipe if you're looking for something quick and easy with great flavor. The pasta cooks right in the skillet so there's no need for extra pots. Don't make this without the sun-dried tomatoes because it will not have as much flavor. My husband recently told me that this is his favorite of the pasta dishes I cook. Recipe is from Americas Test Kitchen.
Try this recipe if you're looking for something quick and easy with great flavor. The pasta cooks right in the skillet so there's no need for extra pots. Don't make this without the sun-dried tomatoes because it will not have as much flavor. My husband recently told me that this is his favorite of the pasta dishes I cook. Recipe is from Americas Test Kitchen.
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- pepper to taste
- 1 bag baby spinach
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 onion minced
- 1 lb sweet italian turkey sausage or 1 lb hot ital casings removed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato packed in oil, rinsed and cho
- 8 ounces penne (about 2 1/2 cups can also use ziti)
- 1 ounce parmesan cheese grated or 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- Carbohydrate 9.67422641175759 g
- Cholesterol 13.0348950870721 mg
- Fat 5.97639214173777 g
- Fiber 2.15293754482269 g
- Protein 10.6926478976982 g
- Saturated Fat 2.77017274887866 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving(s) (419g)
- Sodium 689.629927070046 mg
- Sugar 7.5212888669349 g
- Trans Fat 0.525797525649275 g
- Calories 130 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. (Be sure to use at least a 12-inch size skillet to hold all ingredients.)
- Add the onion and 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 15 seconds.
- Sprinkle the sun-dried tomatoes and penne evenly over the sausage.
- Pour the broth and milk over the pasta.
- Cover and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach a handful at a time and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. (It may seem like a lot of spinach, but it will wilt considerably.)
- Stir in the Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Skillet Penne and Sausage Supper: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, after-school activities, and the constant juggle of keeping everyone fed and happy. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious recipes that don't sacrifice flavor. This Skillet Penne and Sausage Supper is my new go-to – a complete game-changer on those hectic evenings.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency. No more juggling multiple pots and pans while simultaneously trying to keep an eye on the kids! The penne cooks perfectly in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the deliciousness of the sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of creamy milk. I’ve been making pasta dishes for years, and this one has swiftly become a family favorite; even my picky eaters clean their plates!
The recipe itself is surprisingly flexible. I often swap out the Italian turkey sausage for chicken sausage, depending on what's on sale or what we fancy. You can also easily adjust the amount of spinach—a healthier addition that adds vibrant color and a delightful earthy flavor. And, of course, don't skimp on the sun-dried tomatoes! They add a burst of intense flavor that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. These little gems are packed with umami and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory sausage beautifully.
The secret ingredient, if you ask me, is the combination of chicken broth and milk. This creates a light, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta without being overly heavy. I experimented with different ratios, and this particular blend delivers the ideal balance of richness and lightness. The sauce is neither too thin nor too thick—just the right consistency to coat each strand of penne perfectly.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, this dish also offers a surprising level of versatility. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, but it’s easily dressed up for a more elegant meal. A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of crusty bread elevates it to a more sophisticated level. It’s equally satisfying on a chilly evening or a warm summer night. I've served it to friends and family, and the response has always been overwhelmingly positive.
More than just a meal, this recipe represents a mindful approach to cooking and family time. It’s about finding joy in creating something delicious and nourishing without sacrificing quality time with loved ones. It allows me to focus on my family while still providing a wholesome, satisfying dinner. On those busy weeknights when every minute counts, this Skillet Penne and Sausage Supper is a lifesaver—a simple yet supremely satisfying dish that brings everyone together around the table. The recipe has become a staple in our home, a testament to the magic of simple ingredients expertly combined. And honestly, knowing that my family eagerly awaits this dish every time I make it makes all the effort worthwhile.
This dish isn't just about convenience; it's about bringing people together. The aroma that wafts through the kitchen as the sausage simmers and the pasta cooks is, in itself, an invitation to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and good food. It's a perfect way to end a busy day, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there's always time for a heartwarming meal and precious moments with loved ones. The flavors intertwine – a comforting symphony of savory sausage, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy milk – creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
For those times when I need a quick and satisfying meal that pleases everyone, this skillet penne and sausage supper is my go-to solution. I highly recommend adding this recipe to your repertoire. It’s a weeknight winner and a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a little love.
