Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage: 5 Reasons to Indulge

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite pasta dishes! Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is like a hug in a bowl. Seriously, every time I make it, the aroma of garlic and butter fills my kitchen, and I can hardly wait to dig in. It’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for those cozy nights when you want something rich and comforting. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage makes it so flavorful, and adding fresh spinach not only gives it a pop of color but also a boost of nutrition. Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. You’re going to love how simple it is to whip up, too!

Ingredients List

• 8 ounces of penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce!
• 1 pound of ground beef – I love using lean beef for a healthier option.
• 1/2 pound of Italian sausage – this adds a delicious kick and enhances the flavor beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons of butter – because butter makes everything better, right?
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced – fresh garlic is a must for that irresistible aroma.
• 1 cup of heavy cream – it’s what makes this dish irresistibly creamy and dreamy!
• 1 cup of spinach, chopped – adds freshness and a pop of color, plus all those great nutrients.
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – sprinkle this in for that cheesy goodness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – always season to make those flavors sing!

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

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

First things first, let’s get that penne pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—about 4-6 quarts should do the trick. Once it’s boiling, add the 8 ounces of penne and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 11-13 minutes for al dente perfection. Trust me, you want it just right, not mushy! Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can even toss it with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Now for the fun part! In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of Italian sausage. Cook these together until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks for even browning. The heavenly smell will start to fill your kitchen—oh, it’s so good!

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic and Cream

Next up, we’re bringing in the flavor! Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn! Then, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring that mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble away for about 3-5 minutes. This is where the magic happens, turning your skillet into a creamy paradise!

Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine

Now, add in 1 cup of chopped spinach and let it cook until it wilts down—this should only take a couple of minutes. Finally, add your cooked penne and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Give everything a good stir, making sure that pasta is well-coated in that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and voila! You’ve got a hearty, delicious dish ready to serve!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a little heads up! The nutritional values for this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But typically, you can expect about 600 calories per serving, with around 40 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and 40 grams of carbohydrates. If you’re counting anything specific, like sodium or sugar, just keep in mind that these can fluctuate too. It’s always a good idea to check your ingredient labels for the most accurate information! Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation—ready in just 35 minutes!
• Rich, creamy flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a comforting meal.
• Wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach for a nutritious boost.
• Easy to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies.
• A crowd-pleaser that’ll impress family and friends alike!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach turns out perfectly! First up, don’t be shy with the garlic—if you love that flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Also, if you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a plant-based cream if you’re going dairy-free. Just keep an eye on the simmering time, as it may thicken differently.

When it comes to the meat, using ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative if you want something leaner. And for the veggies, kale works beautifully instead of spinach if you want to mix it up! Remember to taste and adjust your seasonings as you go—everyone’s palate is different, and a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference. Happy cooking!

Variations of Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the proteins? Ground turkey or chicken can be fantastic alternatives for a lighter version. You could also go vegetarian by using crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for that meaty texture.

When it comes to veggies, the options are endless! You could toss in some roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli for a colorful twist. And if penne isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you love—fusilli or rotini work great too! The world is your pasta oyster!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! To store your Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach, simply transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up that delicious sauce. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just cover it to prevent splattering! Enjoy those cozy leftovers!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal truly special, I love serving Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something warm, garlic bread is a classic choice—who can resist that buttery, toasty goodness? And don’t forget a nice glass of red wine, like a Chianti or a Merlot, to elevate your dining experience. Cheers to good food and great company!

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