Garlic Parmesan Sausage and Kale Penne Pasta

This comforting pasta dish brings together savory Italian sausage, hearty kale and sweet red onions in a quick and satisfying meal. The penne pasta is perfectly coated with a garlic parmesan finish that elevates every bite.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something warm and filling. The combination of spicy sausage and earthy kale creates a balanced flavor that the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

12 oz penne pastaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)View ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 red onion, thinly slicedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

4 cups kale, stems removed and choppedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 cloves garlic, mincedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tbsp olive oilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Salt and pepper to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced red onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the drained penne and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli or farfalle works well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I substitute the kale with spinach?

Absolutely. Spinach cooks faster, so add it in the last minute of cooking and stir until wilted.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.