Creamy Spicy Sausage and Spinach Orecchiette Recipe in Just 25 Minutes

If you want a quick, satisfying dinner that combines bold flavors with creamy comfort, this creamy spicy sausage and spinach orecchiette recipe is a perfect choice. It comes together in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you crave something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. The spicy Italian sausage adds a punch of heat balanced by the smooth cream sauce and fresh spinach, all tossed with tender orecchiette pasta. This dish is both simple and impressive, delivering a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Creamy spicy sausage and spinach orecchiette served in a bowl

Ingredients You Will Need

To make this flavorful pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 oz orecchiette pasta

• 12–16 oz spicy Italian sausage, casings removed

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust based on sausage heat)

• ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)

• ½ cup reserved pasta water

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 4–5 cups fresh spinach

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Olive oil (optional, if needed for cooking)

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a rich, spicy, and fresh pasta dish that balances creaminess with a touch of heat and the earthiness of spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to prepare the dish efficiently:

1. Cook the Orecchiette Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette and cook until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes depending on the brand. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. If the sausage releases a lot of fat, carefully spoon off the excess grease to avoid a heavy sauce.

3. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the sausage. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step builds the base flavor and enhances the spiciness.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir gently and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly and become smooth.

5. Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and glossy. This step adds richness and depth to the flavor.

6. Wilt the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach in handfuls to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts but still retains its vibrant green color. This usually takes 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds freshness and balances the richness of the sauce.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet with the sauce and sausage. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water until the pasta looks glossy and well-coated.

8. Season and Serve

Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. For an extra touch, finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Success

• Choose quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key. Pick a spicy Italian sausage with good seasoning for the best taste.

• Don’t skip reserving pasta water: The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and keeps it silky.

• Adjust heat level: If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts quickly and adds a nice texture contrast.

• Serve with crusty bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances bold and creamy flavors with fresh greens and hearty pasta. The spicy sausage provides a satisfying kick, while the cream and Parmesan create a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the orecchiette’s little ear-shaped curves. Spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness that complements the richness. Plus, the entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it practical for everyday cooking.

If you want to impress family or guests with minimal effort, this creamy spicy sausage and spinach orecchiette recipe is a reliable go-to. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to customize with your favorite pasta or greens.

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious meal that feels indulgent but cooks quickly. You’ll appreciate how simple ingredients can transform into a satisfying dish with just a few steps.