Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage and Spinach

Here’s everything you need to create this wonderful dish:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Follow these steps for a quick and delicious meal:

• Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
• Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up as they cook. Cook until fully browned, then drain off excess grease.
• Step 3: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the spinach and cook until heated through, about 2–3 minutes.
• Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
• Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Step 6: Add the cooked spaghetti and meat mixture to the sauce. Gently toss until everything is coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
• Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley on top.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti

• For a deeper flavor, consider browning the meat over medium-high heat for a few extra minutes.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor in your sauce.
• Feel free to substitute fresh spinach for frozen; just make sure to wilt it before adding to the dish.
• If you want a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead? Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative for a healthier twist.
• What if I don’t have chicken broth? You can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, but broth will enhance the flavor.
• Can this recipe be made vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the meats and use extra vegetables along with a plant-based cream to keep it creamy.
• Is there a way to make this dish spicier? Yes, you can increase the Cajun seasoning or add fresh chopped jalapeños for heat.
• How should leftovers be stored? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Italian Sausage and Spinach is not just a meal, but an experience that pleases the palate and warms the soul. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night, it’s both simple to prepare and delicious. Enjoy the delight of creamy pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant spinach all in one hearty dish. Don’t forget to share it with family and friends, and enjoy the compliments that come your way!