Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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When cozy comfort food calls, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach answers with bold flavor and rich, creamy satisfaction. The garlic butter sauce is indulgent without being heavy, the kind of luscious coating that hugs every strand of pasta. Juicy sausage bites and fresh baby spinach give it heartiness and color, while a blanket of melted cheese adds that irresistible finish.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Saturday pasta night, this dish delivers ease and elegance in every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder if you play it smart—perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious fast without sacrificing flavor. Serve it up straight from the skillet with crusty bread, and you’ve got a no-fuss showstopper.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While this recipe highlights spaghetti, you can easily substitute with linguine, fettuccine, or even bucatini if you want more texture. Spaghetti, however, provides that perfect balance between absorbing the garlicky butter sauce and twirling just right on the fork. Go for a high-quality durum wheat variety, and if you’re feeling fancy, fresh pasta works beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Spaghetti: The foundation of the dish. It soaks up all the creamy garlic butter sauce and gives the dish its satisfying chew.

Italian Sausage: Choose a sweet or spicy variety depending on your preference. The sausage adds bold flavor and protein, making this dish hearty and filling.

Fresh Spinach: A pop of green and a dose of nutrients, spinach wilts beautifully into the hot sauce and adds a light contrast to the richness.

Garlic: The backbone of the sauce. Freshly minced garlic sautéed in butter brings a bold aroma and deep savory flavor.

Butter: Essential for building the creamy garlic sauce. Use unsalted to better control the saltiness.

Heavy Cream: Adds silky richness and helps create a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce and creates that gooey, cheesy pull we all crave.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty edge to balance the creaminess.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): A touch of heat to brighten and lift the flavor.

Salt and Pepper: To enhance and balance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and let it reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes. Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Spinach and Sausage

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss in the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts into the sauce and everything is well combined.

Step 6: Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Use tongs to toss and coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Serve with Extra Cheese

Serve hot with additional Parmesan on top, cracked black pepper, and a side of garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.

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Serving and Storing Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the skillet. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete dinner. If you like a little extra texture, a sprinkling of toasted breadcrumbs or more grated Parmesan on top can be a game-changer.

To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and warm over low heat on the stove or microwave in 30-second intervals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms. Crimini or portobello mushrooms work great and add that same savory depth.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.

What kind of cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?

Fontina, provolone, or even a mild cheddar can work if mozzarella isn’t on hand. You want something melty and mild.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can cook the components (pasta and sausage) ahead of time, but for best results, assemble and serve fresh. The sauce is creamiest when just made.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but you can dial up the heat with more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage if you like a kick.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Add a splash of cream or broth and reheat slowly on the stove for best texture. The microwave works too but stir frequently.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this cheesy garlic butter spaghetti, you’ll want to check out these other creamy pasta favorites:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
• Red Pepper Rigatoni – A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again any time you crave comfort in a bowl.

Tried it out? Tell me how it turned out in the comments below! Did you go spicy with the sausage? Add extra cheese on top?

I love hearing your kitchen wins and tweaks. Drop your favorite variations or questions—we’re building a community of flavor right here.

✨ For more comfort food creations and cozy pasta nights, follow me on Pinterest: Life with Jam

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