Mediterranean Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach
Mediterranean Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is a rich, comforting pasta dish that still feels balanced and fresh. Tender penne is coated in a silky garlic butter cream sauce, paired with savory ground beef, juicy sausage, and wilted spinach for color and freshness. Mediterranean-style seasoning keeps the flavors warm and aromatic without overwhelming the dish. This is the kind of meal that works for a cozy family dinner but is also impressive enough to serve guests. It comes together in one pan after the pasta is cooked, making it practical, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Proteins
400 g penne pasta
300 g ground beef
250 g beef or chicken sausage, sliced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup beef broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Finishing
2 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Add butter to the pan, then stir in chopped onion and cook until soft.
Add garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in beef broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping the pan for flavor.
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Add cooked penne, sausage, and spinach, tossing gently until spinach wilts.
Taste, adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.
Tips for Best Results
Cook pasta just to al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
Reserve a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
Brown sausage first for deeper flavor.
Use fresh garlic for best aroma.
Keep heat low when adding cream to avoid splitting.
Grate Parmesan fresh for smoother melting.
Add spinach at the end to keep it bright.
Season gradually to avoid oversalting.
Let the pasta rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Variations
Use lamb sausage for a bolder flavor.
Swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness.
Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Add mushrooms for extra earthiness.
Replace beef with ground turkey.
Add olives for Mediterranean depth.
Use kale instead of spinach.
Finish with lemon zest for brightness.
Make it spicy with extra chili flakes.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream sauces freeze poorly, so fresh is best.
What sausage works best?
Mild or Italian-style sausage works well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and butter alternatives.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Keep heat low once cream is added.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, zucchini or bell peppers work well.
Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly, and chili flakes are optional.
What cheese substitutes work?
Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
How long do leftovers last?
Up to three days refrigerated.
What should I serve with it?
A green salad or garlic bread pairs well.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 650
Protein: 36g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table with minimal fuss. The creamy sauce, savory meats, and fresh spinach create a balanced pasta that feels indulgent but still well-rounded. Easy enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for guests, this recipe is one you will likely return to whenever you want a satisfying, full-flavored meal that delivers every time.