Chicken sausage pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings people together. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. As you approach the kitchen, you’ll find that this dish strikes a delightful balance between health and indulgence. It’s both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying, enticing your taste buds while nourishing your body.
Why We Love This Chicken Sausage Pasta Recipe
Chicken sausage pasta is loved for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for substitutes or a fan of bold flavors seeking to add spices, the foundation of this dish welcomes experimentation.
Moreover, this dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for those evenings when you want something nourishing yet don’t have a lot of time to spare. The balanced combination of protein from the chicken sausage, fiber from the spinach, and hearty carbs from the pasta ensures that you’ll feel satisfied without dragging down your spirit.
Finally, the creamy goat cheese and vibrant marinara sauce meld together to create an indulgent yet guilt-free experience. It’s not just a dinner; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome cooking. The beauty of chicken sausage pasta lies in its ability to bring joy and comfort, making it a favorite for many households.
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Pasta
To whip up this delicious chicken sausage pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package chicken sausages (12 ounces)
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup goat cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: grated parmesan cheese, fresh basil, fresh parsley, red pepper flakes
This selection of ingredients not only makes for a delightful dish but also invites you to explore the potential of each component. Each item plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the palate and the body.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Pasta
Creating chicken sausage pasta is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy cooking without feeling overwhelmed. Follow these easy steps to bring this flavorful dish to life:
Cook the Pasta: Begin by taking a large pot and filling it with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, drop in your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, but remember to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This will help you to adjust the sauce later.
Prepare the Chicken Sausage: While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up your olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken sausage to the pan. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing one side to become nicely browned. After that, flip the sausage pieces and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they are thoroughly cooked through and golden brown on all sides.
Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. Then, toss in the chopped spinach. Sauté together for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down and combined beautifully with the mushrooms.
Combine the Ingredients: Lower the heat and mix in the marinara sauce along with the drained pasta. Stir everything well, ensuring that the sauce evenly coats both the pasta and the vegetables. Crumble in the goat cheese and pour in the reserved pasta water. This step ensures that the sauce remains creamy and adds a rich flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything warm for about one minute, adding more pasta water if you’d like a thinner consistency.
Serve Hot: Once warmed through, it’s time to dig in! You can serve it straight from the pan, or dish it out onto plates. For an extra touch, you might want to sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes over the top. Enjoy every bite of your chicken sausage pasta!
How to Serve Chicken Sausage Pasta
When serving chicken sausage pasta, presentation is key. A beautiful plate allows the colors of the ingredients to shine, making your meal even more appetizing. Consider using a wide bowl or a large plate to highlight the dish.
For a casual family dinner, serving it straight from the skillet can create a cozy and warm atmosphere. Add optional toppings, such as freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, to elevate the meal visually and flavor-wise.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, perhaps dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice, which can provide crunch and brightness to complement the pasta. Additionally, a piece of crusty artisan bread can make a delightful accompaniment for those who enjoy mopping up the extra sauce while eating.
Expert Tips for Chicken Sausage Pasta
Creating chicken sausage pasta can be a joyful experience, especially with these expert tips:
Quality Matters: Choose high-quality chicken sausages for the best flavor. Look for those with minimal preservatives and a rich seasoning profile.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables like spinach and mushrooms makes a noticeable difference in flavor and nutrition. Visit your local farmer’s market if possible for the freshest produce.
Perfect Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente; this gives it a delightful bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender vegetables.
Play with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings to cater to your taste. Herbs like thyme or oregano can add depth, while a dash of red pepper flakes introduces a pleasant heat.
Customize It: Feel free to customize this recipe. You can swap out goat cheese for feta, add in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even use a different type of sauce if you prefer.
How to Store Chicken Sausage Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often the case with such a beloved dish), storing chicken sausage pasta is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
Use an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over low heat, or use a microwave-safe dish and reheat until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Variations of Chicken Sausage Pasta
The beauty of chicken sausage pasta is in its adaptability. Here are a few variations you might consider trying out:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and increase the amount of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a kick, you can add red pepper flakes directly into the sauce or use a spicy marinara.
Creamy Addition: If you’re in the mood for something richer, add a splash of cream or use a cream-based sauce instead of marinara.
Added Protein: For additional protein, mix in some beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas, or even cooked lentils.
Different Cheeses: Explore different cheeses to bring unique flavors, such as mozzarella, ricotta, or parmesan.
FAQ
What is chicken sausage pasta?
Chicken sausage pasta is a simple and flavorful dish that combines pasta, chicken sausage, vegetables, and marinara sauce, achieving a balance of taste and nutrition.
Can I customize the ingredients in chicken sausage pasta?
Absolutely! You can adjust the vegetables, use different sausages, or switch cheeses based on your preferences.
How long does chicken sausage pasta last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, chicken sausage pasta can last for approximately 3-4 days in the fridge.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve, making it great for meal prep.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it features lean protein from chicken sausage, nutritious greens, and whole grains from the pasta, making it a wholesome option for a hearty meal.
Chicken Sausage Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Colander
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces chicken sausage sliced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups spinach roughly chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 0.5 cup goat cheese crumbled
- salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- grated parmesan cheese for topping
- fresh basil chopped
- fresh parsley chopped
- red pepper flakes optional for heat
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Add mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes more.
- Lower heat and stir in marinara sauce and drained pasta. Add crumbled goat cheese and reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine and warm through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like grated parmesan, fresh basil, parsley, or red pepper flakes.