Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta

This tomato spinach sausage pasta has become one of my favorite weekday dinners because it is flavorful, filling, and can be made in less than forty minutes with simple ingredients I usually have on hand. The combination of juicy sausage, tangy tomato, and fresh spinach turns every bite into something special without needing hours at the stove.

I started making this for my partner who adores pasta and needed more greens in their diet and since then we both request it whenever we are craving comfort food but want it just a little lighter

Ingredients

• Italian sausage meat: look for high quality sausage with visible herbs and spices for maximum flavor
• Farfalle pasta: or your favorite pasta shape wheat pasta holds sauce well and provides a hearty base
• Garlic cloves: always choose fresh garlic for the best aroma and depth
• Cherry tomatoes: ripe tomatoes add freshness and a pop of color plus natural sweetness
• Fresh spinach: helps balance richness and wilts perfectly just before serving
• Tomato puree: brings bold tomato concentration and binds the sauce
• Paprika: try using smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor
• Cayenne pepper: allows you to adjust the spice to your liking
• Olive oil: cold pressed extra virgin adds richness and helps meld the flavors
• Chili flakes: crush them fresh if you want even more punch
• Black pepper: freshly cracked over the top just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a large pot of well salted water and cook your pasta until just al dente following the package directions carefully so the pasta stays tender but not mushy

Brown the Sausage:

Use a heavy skillet and cook the sausage meat on medium high breaking it apart with a sturdy wooden spoon for about six to eight minutes until nearly cooked through and slightly caramelized on the edges which brings out the flavor

Add Aromatics:

Add chopped garlic and a light drizzle of olive oil to the sausage stirring for about two minutes until the garlic smells fragrant and the sausage is thoroughly cooked

Build the Sauce:

Add chopped cherry tomatoes sprinkle in the paprika and cayenne and let this mixture cook for three to four minutes until the tomatoes start breaking down and release their juices which creates a natural sauce base

Finish with Spinach and Tomato Puree:

Stir in the tomato puree and toss in a generous handful of fresh spinach letting it wilt gently from the steam and heat this step should take only one to two minutes as overcooking spinach can make it bitter

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Drain the pasta and immediately stir it into your sausage veggie mixture making sure all the noodles are coated with the sauce and everything is evenly combined

Season and Serve:

Transfer pasta to serving bowls and top each with black pepper and chili flakes to taste the fresh pepper brightens every bite and the chili flakes add that little kick

Pin it

I remember my dad helping me pick out local sausage from the farmers market and the aroma in the kitchen brought everyone to the table before dinner was even ready

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in your fridge for up to three days Sprinkle a few drops of water over before reheating to bring back its moisture This pasta also holds up well if you want to pack it for lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap turkey or chicken sausage if you want something lighter You can use penne or rigatoni if farfalle is not on hand I have also made it with baby kale when spinach was missing and it turned out great

Serving Suggestions

It is perfect on its own but a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread makes it extra comforting Top with grated parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if you want a richer finish

Cultural Context

Pasta with sausage and greens is a classic Italian combination I love how this version celebrates those cozy flavors but comes together quickly enough to become part of your regular rotation

Pin it

I can promise you this recipe gets even better the next day which makes it wonderful for leftovers Every time I make it I am reminded how something so simple can bring everyone together around the table

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

→ Should I use mild or spicy sausage?

Choose based on your spice preference. Spicy sausage adds more heat, while mild is great for a milder taste.

→ Can I substitute fresh spinach with frozen?

Yes, thaw frozen spinach and drain excess water before adding it to the pan.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta cheese after combining the pasta with the sausage mixture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently for best results.