30-Minute Italian Sausage Pasta with Spinach

30-Minute Italian Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Marinara (Dairy-Free)

This 30-Minute Italian Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Marinara (Dairy-Free) is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something flavorful and satisfying. The savory Italian sausage pairs perfectly with earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a rich marinara sauce. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dairy-free pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that delivers big on taste while being light and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just need a quick dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)

1 lb Italian sausage (use spicy or mild, depending on your taste; ensure it’s dairy-free)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work great)

5 oz fresh spinach (about 4 cups)

1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (check for dairy-free ingredients or make your own)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

1/4 cup dairy-free parmesan (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for a hint of sweetness
1/2 cup dairy-free cream or coconut milk if you want a creamier sauce without dairy

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Cook the Sausage:
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Mushrooms & Spinach:
Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Add Marinara Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve & Garnish:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. For a cheesy touch without dairy, sprinkle with your favorite dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Sausage Pasta:

Choose Quality Sausage: Look for a flavorful, high-quality Italian sausage—spicy or mild, depending on your preference. Double-check the ingredients to ensure it’s dairy-free.

Balance the Flavors: If your marinara is a bit tangy, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance it out.

Make It Creamy (Without Dairy): Stir in a bit of coconut milk, oat cream, or cashew cream at the end for a creamy, rich sauce without the dairy.

Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.