Italian Sausage Spaghetti with Spinach and Marinara in 30 Minutes!

Italian sausage spaghetti with spinach and marinara is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights when I crave something comforting and delicious. The savory Italian sausage is paired with a rich marinara sauce, tender pasta, and fresh spinach, all brought together in just 30 minutes. This dish is packed with protein, greens, and a burst of tomato flavor, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Whether I’m cooking for the family or a special weeknight dinner, this quick and easy recipe never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the classic, bold flavors of Italian sausage with the freshness of spinach, all in a simple yet satisfying pasta dish. The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The sausage adds a rich, savory depth, while the spinach gives it a healthy boost and a pop of color. The marinara sauce ties everything together, and the spaghetti is the perfect vehicle to soak up all the flavorful goodness. It’s the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 9-10 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add Garlic and Marinara Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down and softens. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). For extra heat, I sometimes sprinkle in a bit of red pepper flakes.

5. Combine with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sausage and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce needs to be thinned out a bit, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

6. Serve: Serve the Italian sausage spaghetti with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a delicious dinner in a hurry.

Variations

If I want to switch things up, I sometimes use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner option. For extra flavor, I love adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers into the sauce. If I have extra veggies on hand, I might throw in some zucchini, bell peppers, or even olives for more texture and color. I’ve also tried using whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra marinara sauce or pasta water if it needs to loosen up. This dish also freezes well, so I can store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time. I often cook the sausage and sauce mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, I just cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?

Yes! Fresh oregano or basil would work wonderfully in this dish. I’d add fresh herbs toward the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Definitely! If I prefer chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage, they would all work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on the type of sausage.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes! I’ve added shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese directly into the sauce for a creamier texture. Stirring in a little cream cheese or ricotta cheese can also add richness to the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap!

Conclusion

Italian sausage spaghetti with spinach and marinara is the perfect dinner for any night when you need something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. The savory sausage, fresh spinach, and rich marinara sauce come together effortlessly in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Whether I’m cooking for the family or entertaining guests, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious!