How to Make Skillet Sausage Pasta – A Family-Friendly Favorite

Busy weeknights call for meals that are simple, satisfying, and cleanup-friendly—and this Skillet Sausage Pasta checks every box. Packed with savory sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, it comes together in one pan for a hearty dinner that’s both comforting and surprisingly light. This dish brings the richness of a classic comfort food, but with thoughtful ingredient choices that keep it balanced and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience: Less cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ready in 30 Minutes: Perfect for hectic evenings.
Family-Friendly: Everyone at the table will love it.
Lighter Twist: All the indulgence, made a bit smarter.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 8 oz lean turkey or chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 ½ cups baby spinach
• ¼ cup light cream cheese or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Sauce & Cook the Pasta

Stir in the chicken broth, milk, drained tomatoes, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add uncooked pasta directly to the skillet. Bring to a light boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Add the Creaminess & Greens

Stir in cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture, then fold in the spinach until wilted. Return sausage to the skillet and stir everything to combine. Cook another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Finish and Serve

Top with grated Parmesan if desired and serve hot. Enjoy the comfort of a rich, cheesy pasta with a fraction of the heaviness.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 | Protein: 22g | Carbs: 32g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 5g

Tips for Success

• Use Pre-Cooked Sausage: Saves time and makes prep a breeze.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.
• Choose Your Creaminess: Cream cheese adds richness, but Greek yogurt keeps it tangy and light.
• Watch the Liquid: Stir as it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish brings all the bold, comforting flavors of a pasta bake but with fewer steps, less cleanup, and lighter ingredients. The combination of lean sausage, whole grain pasta, and leafy greens ensures a balanced meal in a single pan. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and versatile enough to tweak with your favorite ingredients.

Skillet Sausage Pasta is the go-to recipe when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s warm, flavorful, and delivers that classic pasta satisfaction—with better-for-you ingredients that fit into a mindful lifestyle. One pan, one dish, endless comfort.