There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of pasta when it’s rich, creamy, and packed with hearty flavors. This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is the kind of dish that turns a simple dinner into something memorable. Imagine tender penne pasta wrapped in a silky garlic butter sauce, mixed with savory beef and sausage, then balanced with the freshness of baby spinach. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and exactly what your dinner table has been craving.

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This meal comes together with ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it an easy weeknight staple. Yet it feels special enough for a weekend dinner. The creaminess of the sauce clings to every curve of the penne, while the garlic and sausage bring bold depth. It’s comfort food with a touch of sophistication.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne

This recipe hits that perfect balance between creamy and savory. It feeds hungry appetites and delights picky eaters. With its garlicky warmth, luscious sauce, and generous helping of meat, this pasta is pure bliss in a bowl. The added spinach not only gives a pop of green but also brings a lightness that prevents the dish from feeling too heavy.

It also reheats beautifully, which means you can enjoy leftovers without compromise. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s always a hit.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Dishes Like This?

Penne is the star here because its tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. But if you’re out of penne, don’t stress. Other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini will do the job nicely. Just aim for something with ridges or curves to catch the buttery garlic goodness. The real magic is in the sauce, so pick a pasta that plays well with it.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach

The ingredients in this recipe are simple, but when combined, they create a dish that feels like restaurant-quality. Each element plays a role in building richness and balance in every bite.

Penne pasta: Holds the sauce beautifully with its tube-like shape.
Ground beef: Brings heartiness and depth to the sauce.

Italian sausage: Adds extra spice and richness with its seasonings.
Fresh spinach: Lends freshness and lightness to balance the creaminess.
Garlic: The base of the flavor profile, aromatic and savory.

Butter: Makes the sauce luscious and smooth.
Heavy cream: Essential for a velvety, indulgent finish.
Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty element that ties it all together.

Salt & pepper: To season and enhance every flavor.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break them up into small crumbles as they cook. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add butter to the same skillet and melt it down. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Pasta

Stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Then add the drained pasta and the cooked meats. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne

This rich pasta dish serves about four to six people, depending on how hungry everyone is. It makes a wonderful main course on its own but also pairs beautifully with sides. For storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it just as enjoyable the next day.

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, which can separate, but it does excel as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne?

Garlic Bread

Buttery, crisp, and perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce left on your plate.

Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crunch of romaine lettuce offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a slightly charred bite that plays well with the rich flavors.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

A sweet and tangy side dish that adds balance.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil help lighten up the meal.

Antipasto Platter

A great way to start the meal with marinated olives, artichokes, and salami.

Lemon Parmesan Asparagus

The zesty flavor cuts through the heaviness of the pasta.

Sparkling Water or Light White Wine

To refresh the palate and elevate your dining experience.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Comforting Flavor?

If you love this creamy garlic butter pasta, you’ll likely enjoy these other comforting dishes from our collection:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra garlicky? Did you sneak in extra veggies or swap the protein?

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach is the pasta dish that brings all your comfort food dreams together. It’s rich yet balanced, simple to make, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy night in or feeding a group, it’s sure to impress with every creamy, garlicky bite.

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Penne with Sausage and Spinach