If you’re craving something rich, indulgent, and totally satisfying, this Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Cheesy Italian Sausage and Spinach might just become your new favorite comfort dish. A perfect blend of savory sausage, vibrant greens, and melty cheese, all wrapped in garlicky buttery pasta strands, it’s like your weeknight dinner got a gourmet upgrade.

The real magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and punchy flavors. It transforms everyday ingredients into a luxurious, layered meal without needing a long prep time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to something cozy and special, this dish nails it with its balance of textures and boldness.

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

Flavor Explosion: Juicy sausage, melted cheese, and golden garlic butter offer unmatched depth and savoriness.
Weeknight Friendly: Despite its restaurant-style vibes, it’s ready in under 40 minutes.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good reheated.
Customizable: Swap the spinach for kale, or go spicy with hot Italian sausage.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

A little planning goes a long way to make this dish come together effortlessly.

Essential Tools & Their Roles

Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection.
Deep Skillet or Saute Pan: To brown the sausage and blend the garlic butter sauce with spinach and pasta.
Tongs or Pasta Fork: Essential for tossing everything evenly and coating the spaghetti with that buttery sauce.
Box Grater: If using block cheese, this ensures it melts evenly.
Colander: To drain your spaghetti without losing any pasta water (you might want to reserve a little).

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

Spaghetti: Acts as the hearty base that ties all the bold flavors together.
Italian Sausage: Adds deep, savory, and slightly spicy flavor, the main protein source.
Fresh Spinach: Brings a pop of color, texture, and nutrients.
Minced Garlic: Essential for that rich garlic butter flavor.
Butter: Forms the base of the sauce, carrying the garlic and enhancing the pasta.
Shredded Mozzarella & Parmesan: For that gooey, cheesy top and nutty depth.
Olive Oil: Helps in browning the sausage and prevents the butter from burning.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning.

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled Italian sausage and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Add the Greens

Toss in fresh spinach and stir gently until wilted into the garlic butter sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add drained spaghetti and toss everything together. If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Top with mozzarella and parmesan, letting it melt through the pasta or broil for 2–3 minutes for a bubbly, golden finish.

Serving and Storing This Flavor-Packed Pasta

This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the garlic butter is silky. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a chunk of warm garlic bread for the ultimate comfort combo.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to rehydrate the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine work well. Just make sure to cook until al dente.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It can be, though the texture of the cheese may change slightly. Freeze in individual portions for easy lunches.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the sausage with a plant-based alternative or sautéed mushrooms.

What cheese is best for the topping?

Mozzarella for meltiness, and parmesan for a salty, nutty kick. Feel free to add provolone or fontina.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes! Use hot Italian sausage or toss in red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Comfort Built In?

If this cheesy sausage spaghetti speaks to your soul, you’ll love these other cozy dishes:

Try the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a creamy twist.
The Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta brings garlic butter to new heights.
Craving spice? The Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet has the heat.
Don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a bold dinner idea.
For classic indulgence, check out the Old-Fashioned Spaghetti with Hearty Meat Sauce.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or use hot sausage? Maybe threw in extra cheese?

I love seeing how you customize these meals. Don’t forget to tag me when you try it—and check out more comforting dinner ideas on my Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart from Kitchen By Kate!