Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Chicken and Sausage Pasta is both hearty and quick, making it a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight. You can whip it up in just one pot, which means less cleanup for you. This recipe combines savory chicken sausage, pasta, and fresh vegetables into a creamy dish. But what makes it stand out is its versatility; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Let’s explore how to create this delicious meal step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make, this Chicken and Sausage Pasta recipe is a fantastic choice.
You’ll love how quick it’s to prepare, with straightforward steps and minimal ingredients. The recipe uses pantry staples, allowing you to customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables.
Packed with protein from chicken and sausage, this dish is also nutritious, offering a balance of carbs and fats. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze. Additionally, you can enhance the dish’s protein content by using chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.
The creamy sauce adds rich flavor, making it satisfying and hearty. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick dinner, this recipe will fit right in with your busy schedule.
History
Pasta has a rich history that dates back centuries, with roots deeply embedded in Italian culture. One notable type is mafaldine, named after Princess Mafalda of Savoy. This pasta originates from the Campania region, particularly around Naples. Its long, flat ribbons and ruffled edges make it perfect for holding sauces, especially hearty ones. In Southern Italian cuisine, you’ll find various local names and variations of pasta, showcasing its versatility. Mafaldine pasta is known for its distinctive ruffled edges, which enhance the overall dining experience. Chicken sausage, frequently used in Italian-inspired dishes, pairs well with pasta. It’s seasoned with herbs and spices, enhancing the dish’s flavor. Often sautéed or grilled, chicken sausage adds a savory touch to meals, making it a popular choice for quick, delicious dinners.
Recipe
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bow tie pasta (or 1 lb. whole wheat pasta, or 12 oz gluten-free mafalda pasta)
– 2 (12 oz) Italian style chicken sausage (or 1 package chicken sausage, or 3 Italian sausage links)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus a little extra for drizzling)
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 3 cloves, or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
– Italian stewed tomatoes
– Bell peppers and onions
– Mushrooms
Cooking Instructions:
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Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
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While the pasta is cooking, slice the chicken sausage into rounds. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until they’re browned and fully cooked through. If using Italian sausage links, cook them until browned, then slice them.
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Next, incorporate the Italian stewed tomatoes, along with diced bell peppers, onions, and any other vegetables you wish to add. Cook until the vegetables are tender, around 5-7 minutes.
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Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy whipping cream and parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined. Season with salt, basil, and pepper flakes to taste. This dish is popular for its creamy, hearty sauce that appeals to families.
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Ultimately, toss the cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce and sausage until everything is evenly coated. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes, then serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Extra Tips:
When preparing this dish, consider adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with chicken stock or use a combination of both.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Finally, using a thermometer will help guarantee that the sausage is cooked to a safe internal temperature, especially if you opt for raw sausage links.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Sausage Pasta!
Final Thoughts
After preparing a delicious Chicken and Sausage Pasta, it’s time to reflect on what makes this dish a great choice for any meal.
With only about 318 calories per serving, it’s a balanced option, providing 18.6 grams of protein and healthy fats. You can easily customize it by substituting proteins like tofu or shrimp, or using gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. Additionally, this dish offers a moderate calorie count, making it a suitable option for those mindful of their intake.
Plus, adding vegetables like spinach or tomatoes boosts its nutritional value. The one-pan cooking method saves time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
You can also enhance flavors with homemade pesto or crushed red pepper flakes. Overall, this dish isn’t only tasty but also nutritious and adaptable, which makes it a winner for any occasion.
FAQ
Have questions about making Chicken and Sausage Pasta? You’re not alone!
First, choose your pasta; options include penne, bow tie, or gluten-free varieties. For sausage, Italian-style chicken sausage works best, but feel free to use whatever you like.
When prepping, slice the sausage and sauté it until browned. Don’t forget to sauté garlic and onion for flavor!
For the sauce, you can use marinara or canned tomatoes; just simmer it until thickened. If you want to customize, try adding shrimp or using tofu for a vegetarian twist. Additionally, pasta is a versatile ingredient that appeals to a variety of tastes!
Finally, remember to reserve some pasta water for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Enjoy your meal, and don’t hesitate to reach out with more questions!
