When you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and absolutely comforting, this Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach hits every mark. It’s a crave-worthy combination of tender pasta coated in a garlic-infused butter sauce, tossed with savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and plenty of melted cheese. This dish is not just a weeknight meal—it’s a restaurant-quality experience you can whip up in your own kitchen.

Every bite is packed with flavor: the slight crunch of seared sausage, the silkiness of buttery noodles, and that melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness. The fresh spinach adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a hearty meal for the family, this recipe is going to be one you’ll return to again and again.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this dish just right relies on a few key kitchen tools:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is essential for cooking the sausage evenly and creating that buttery garlic base. A wide surface area allows for even browning and flavor development.
Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: You need enough space for the spaghetti to cook evenly without clumping.
Colander: To drain the pasta properly while reserving some pasta water for emulsifying the sauce.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Great for stirring and breaking up the sausage without scratching your cookware.
Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded options.
Tongs: Ideal for tossing the pasta with the sauce and sausage to coat every strand evenly.

These tools ensure a smooth, efficient cooking process and help bring out the best in every ingredient.

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

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture:

Spaghetti: The base of the dish, it soaks up the garlic butter and ties everything together.

Italian Sausage (mild or spicy): Provides a rich, savory depth and a touch of spice.
Fresh Spinach: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy contrast to the richness of the butter and sausage.
Garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor that defines this dish.

Butter: Forms the velvety base of the sauce that coats the pasta.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the sausage and blend with the butter for richness.
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully into the pasta, adding creamy texture.

Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Adds a salty, nutty punch that elevates the entire dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little extra heat.

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

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and become slightly crispy—this adds a ton of flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the spinach and cook just until wilted.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Add butter to the skillet and let it melt into the sausage and garlic. Stir well to combine. If the mixture seems thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet using tongs. Toss well to coat the noodles with the garlic butter and sausage mixture.

Step 6: Add the Cheeses

Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Toss again until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Finish with cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

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

Serve this dish hot and fresh out of the skillet, when the cheese is still gooey and the pasta is coated in that rich garlic butter. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of more Parmesan. Pair it with crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce and a simple green salad to balance the richness.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. It reheats beautifully and is perfect for next-day lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage works great, but you can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the pan. Fresh spinach gives a better texture, but frozen works in a pinch.

What cheese alternatives can I use?

You can swap mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Just aim for something that melts well.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative. Keep the butter and cheese for that same comforting flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sausage and garlic butter mixture in advance. Just cook the pasta and toss everything together before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content and pasta texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerate short-term.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach, you’ll probably enjoy these other savory pasta creations:

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole with layers of creamy filling and bold tomato sauce.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a baked classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta when you want bold and smoky in one bite.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini that takes creamy weeknight comfort to a new level.
Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini if you’re craving tender beef and bold garlic sauce.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use spicy sausage or mild? Did you throw in extra cheese or sneak in more greens?

I love hearing your twists on these recipes. Questions are always welcome—let’s cook better together.

Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food made with tender spaghetti tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and melty cheese. It’s easy enough for weeknights but indulgent enough to impress guests.

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and Italian sausage. Cook while breaking it up with a spoon until browned and slightly crispy.

2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

3. Add minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

4. Add butter to the skillet and stir to combine. Pour in a splash of pasta water if the mixture is too thick.

5. Toss in cooked spaghetti and combine thoroughly using tongs.

6. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan into the skillet and toss until the cheese melts evenly.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot and cheesy.