Are you craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Italian sausage and spinach recipe is a perfect example of a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that the whole family will love. It's the perfect blend of savory Italian sausage, tender spinach, and aromatic garlic, all simmered in a rich and satisfying tomato sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a staple in our home, and soon to be a favorite in yours. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Remove the sausage from its casings if necessary. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Sausage
Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the spinach is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This creates a hearty and flavorful mixture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Italian sausage and spinach over pasta, polenta, rice, or even on its own. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and enjoy this quick and easy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Italian Sausage Spinach:
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach can become watery and mushy. Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach before adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch more or use a spicier sausage.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, feel free to substitute about 1 tablespoon of each for the dried herbs.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
- Use different sausage: Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Italian sausage is classic but experiment to find your favorite!
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the type of sausage and serving size. This recipe provides a good source of protein and iron from the sausage and spinach. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This Italian sausage and spinach recipe is a fantastic example of a delicious and healthy meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, or whenever you're looking for a satisfying and flavorful dish. The combination of flavors and textures is truly irresistible. Enjoy!