Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. It’s rich, cheesy, savory, and packed with bold Italian flavor from sizzling sausage, creamy melted mozzarella, and tender baby spinach. All swirled through garlicky spaghetti, this dish is as cozy and indulgent as it looks.

What makes it even better? It looks like something straight out of a restaurant kitchen, but it’s simple enough to throw together in one skillet and finish in the oven. That golden cheese on top seals the deal. Perfect for family dinners or casual guests—it’s got enough wow-factor without the fuss.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

Hot or mild Italian sausage both work beautifully here, depending on your spice preference. Mild sausage gives you a classic, kid-friendly version, while hot Italian sausage adds a welcome kick that pairs well with garlic and spinach. Go for ground sausage, or if using links, simply remove the casing.

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

Spaghetti – You’ll need a hearty pasta base to soak up all that garlic butter and cheese.

Italian sausage – Ground sausage gives the dish its savory, meaty depth. Choose hot or mild depending on your spice level.

Fresh garlic – A key player. Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter and coats every strand of pasta.

Butter – For that rich, flavorful garlic sauce. Don’t skimp.

Baby spinach – It wilts down beautifully into the pasta and adds a touch of earthy freshness.

Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce – A base for the sausage and garlic to blend into a luscious, slightly tangy layer.

Mozzarella cheese – The gooey topping that ties it all together. Use shredded mozzarella for even melting.

Parmesan cheese – Adds salty sharpness and a little extra golden crust on top.

Olive oil – Helps start the sausage and garlic off in the skillet.

Salt and pepper – To taste, and to balance all the richness.

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

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach

Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Let the garlic cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts down.

Step 4: Stir in Sauce and Combine

Pour in crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce and mix everything together. Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce and garlic butter mixture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Top the skillet with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach

This dish is best served hot from the oven when the cheese is melty and bubbling. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout, adding a splash of water or marinara to loosen the sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the sausage you use. Hot Italian sausage brings heat, while mild keeps things kid-friendly and savory.

Can I substitute the spinach?

Yes! Kale, arugula, or even finely chopped broccoli can replace spinach. Just make sure to cook them down until tender.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is ideal for meltiness, but provolone, fontina, or a blend can be delicious swaps for different flavors.

Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I keep spaghetti from drying out?

Add a splash of water or extra marinara before reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this cheesy skillet spaghetti, you’ll want to try these next:

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for layers of creamy, meaty pasta comfort.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a rich, satisfying twist.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli when you want something wholesome and veggie-packed.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for indulgence with a Philly-inspired twist.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra cheese or try a different veggie? Maybe a dash of chili flakes?

I love hearing your variations—don’t hesitate to share. And if you’re looking for more cozy dinners like this, check out my daily updates on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach brings together rich garlic butter, browned Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, and wilted spinach in a cozy pasta bake that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence.

Instructions

1. Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

3. Add butter and minced garlic to the sausage. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, then stir in spinach and cook until wilted.

4. Pour in crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce. Mix to combine. Add spaghetti and toss until evenly coated in sauce.

5. Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Transfer skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 10–12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Let rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired.