Rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach is the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With juicy bites of browned sausage, tender spaghetti, and ribbons of fresh spinach, it’s all tied together with a luscious garlic butter sauce and melty cheese that makes each forkful irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy after a long day or something indulgent to serve up at your next family dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes. It pairs comfort-food vibes with just enough greens to keep things balanced, and the prep is simple enough for any weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti

Creamy meets savory: The garlic butter and melted cheese bring a creamy richness that perfectly complements the spicy sausage.
Hearty and filling: With protein-packed Italian sausage and satisfying spaghetti, it’s a full meal on its own.
Quick and weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Great for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
Family favorite: Even picky eaters love the cheesy, garlicky goodness.

What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

This recipe works best with classic dry spaghetti—it holds up well against the hearty sausage and sauce. However, feel free to substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if needed. If you’re craving something more artisanal, try fresh pasta for a softer texture and elevated flavor.

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

Every ingredient in this recipe has a delicious purpose. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Spaghetti: The foundation of the dish. It absorbs the garlicky, cheesy sauce and gives the meal its satisfying bite.
Italian sausage: Adds bold, savory flavor with a hint of spice. Use mild or hot based on your preference.
Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Garlic: Minced garlic sautéed in butter delivers an aromatic punch that defines this dish.
Butter: The base of the sauce, creating a silky coating that clings to every strand of spaghetti.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and helps the sauce come together smoothly.
Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, delivering nutty, salty depth.
Mozzarella cheese: Offers gooey, stretchy creaminess that takes the comfort factor to the next level.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and amplify the taste.

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

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

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

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the sausage to the skillet, then add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce evenly.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot with extra parmesan on top if desired.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This indulgent spaghetti dish is best served straight from the skillet while the cheese is still melty and the sauce luxuriously creamy. Spoon it generously into wide bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

It feeds about 4 hungry people, or 6 if served with a side dish like salad or garlic bread.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream or water to bring back its creamy texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread

The buttery, crispy edges and soft center of garlic bread are perfect for scooping up leftover sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crunchy Caesar salad cuts through the richness with its tangy dressing and crisp romaine.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a nutritious, slightly charred contrast that complements the creamy pasta.

Caprese Skewers

Light and fresh with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—a refreshing side.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Savory stuffed mushrooms echo the umami flavors in the sausage.

Olive Tapenade Crostini

Serve as a starter to wake up the palate before diving into the cheesy main course.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm, simple soup balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Red Wine

Pair with a bold red wine like Chianti or Zinfandel for an elevated dinner experience.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re hooked on this Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage & Spinach, you’ll want to dive into these comforting and creative pasta recipes next:

Try the cozy Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a creamy classic.
Enjoy a flavor explosion with this Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne.
Craving something spicy? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna packs a cheesy, tangy punch.
For something family-friendly and satisfying, make this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta.
Looking for more comfort? This Creamy Beef and Shells brings a hearty one-pan twist.