Comfort Food Craving?
Ever had a pasta dish that made you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? This Chicken Sausage Pasta is just that! Creamy, savory, and bursting with fresh flavors, it’s the kind of meal that hugs you back. Plus, it comes together quickly and in just one pan, making it a weeknight hero. Who doesn’t want dinner in 30 minutes or less?!
Why Make This Recipe
Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
- Easy Cleanup: One pot, one happy home chef. Less time scrubbing means more time snacking.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will gobble it up. In fact, you might hear “more, please!” (or at least a few satisfied grunts).
- Customizable: So many ways to tweak the flavors – it’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but for dinner!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (Italian or your favorite flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Ingredients: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and toss in chicken sausage. Sauté until browned. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until everything’s fragrant and softened.
- Combine and Serve: Stir in the cooked pasta and spinach. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and, if you like, top with Parmesan cheese and basil before digging in!
How to Make Chicken Sausage Pasta (Overview)
This dish is a breeze to whip up! Start by boiling the penne while you sauté the chicken sausage in a pan. Add in your colorful veggies for that perfect crunch, and stir in the fresh spinach right at the end. Pro tip? Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Seriously, that aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage Pasta
Presentation counts, right? Serve your Chicken Sausage Pasta warm in a family-style bowl. The beautiful colors of the bell peppers, green spinach, and juicy tomatoes make it a feast for the eyes. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for that gourmet touch. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone at the table!
How to Store Chicken Sausage Pasta
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any extra pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for even longer enjoyment, up to 3 months. Just remember, when reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. Win-win!
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage Pasta
Want to up your pasta game? Here are some tips:
- Timing is Key: Everything cooks fast, so prep your ingredients before you start.
- Ingredient Swaps: Want it spicier? Use spicy chicken sausage instead. Prefer veggies? Load it up with zucchini or mushrooms!
- Texture Tips: Add nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch. They give your dish that fancy restaurant vibe without the price tag.
Variation
Feel like switching it up? Go vegan by substituting chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or some hearty chickpeas. You can also swap the pasta for a zucchini noodle for a healthier, low-carb option. The possibilities are deliciously endless!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like will work just fine. Go wild!
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep all your veggies and sausage in advance. Just toss everything together when you’re ready!
3. Can I freeze Chicken Sausage Pasta?
Yes! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheating is best done slowly on the stove or in the microwave.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Chicken Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil your pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and toss in chicken sausage. Sauté until browned.
- Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until everything's fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and spinach. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and basil before serving, if desired.