Rich, creamy, and exploding with flavor, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach is everything you want in a weeknight dinner. It starts with tender strands of spaghetti swirled in a velvety garlic butter sauce, layered with juicy, perfectly seasoned Italian sausage and fresh spinach that melts into the richness. The gooey cheese topping makes this a comfort food dream come true.

This dish is the perfect marriage of savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors. It’s got the feel of a baked pasta casserole without the fuss, making it a go-to recipe for when you want something both cozy and fuss-free. Whether you serve it to family or guests, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Quick Comfort: Ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like it simmered all day.
Loaded with Flavor: Garlic, butter, and sausage are a trifecta of taste.
Family Friendly: A no-fail crowd-pleaser.
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Veggie Boost: Spinach adds nutrients and color without overpowering.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most of this delicious dish, having the right tools on hand ensures smooth sailing:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the flavor builds. You’ll brown the sausage, cook the garlic, and melt the cheese all in one.
Pasta Pot: A deep pot to boil your spaghetti until al dente.
Tongs or Pasta Fork: Helps you toss and coat the spaghetti with sauce efficiently.
Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta without losing a strand.

Getting these tools out before starting will make your cooking process seamless and quick.

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

Spaghetti: The pasta base that holds all the rich flavors together.
Italian Sausage: Adds savory, spicy depth and meaty texture.
Butter: Provides richness and carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic boldness.
Spinach: Brings freshness and nutrition while blending into the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce silky and luscious.
Parmesan Cheese: For sharp, nutty richness and meltability.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds gooey, stretchy comfort.
Salt and Pepper: Essential to balance and enhance the overall flavor.

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Don’t let it burn!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the pan, followed by the drained spaghetti. Use tongs to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and let it melt for a gooey finish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta hot and cheesy. Garnish with extra parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet. The creamy cheese sauce clings beautifully to the spaghetti and tastes freshest right off the stove.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can cause the cheese to separate.

This spaghetti also freezes well for up to 1 month. Freeze in portion-sized containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this recipe?

It depends on the sausage you use. Mild Italian sausage keeps it kid-friendly, while hot sausage adds a kick.

Can I substitute the spinach?

Yes! Kale, arugula, or even finely chopped broccoli can be used instead of spinach.

What cheese works best besides mozzarella?

Fontina, provolone, or even a smoked gouda can add a great twist.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily substitute with gluten-free spaghetti.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely. Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but fresh-grated melts smoother and tastes better. Pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti, you’ll definitely want to explore more pasta creations from Kitchen by Kate:

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a family-style cheesy bake.
Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta for a beefy alternative.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini with pillowy pasta and indulgent sauce.
Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a spicy twist.
One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta if you’re craving sweet heat.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Try a different cheese combo? Add sun-dried tomatoes?

I love seeing your variations. Drop your tips and questions below—let’s help each other make dinner even better!