Chicken Sausage Pasta
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this chicken sausage pasta! This dish features succulent chicken sausage tossed with al dente pasta and a rich, savory sauce. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Your taste buds will thank you as you savor every bite of this hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g protein, 10g fat, and 50g carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the sliced chicken sausages and cook until browned.
- Add chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free option. Additionally, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier alternative, and any variety of vegetables can be added based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken sausage pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the dish.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for depth of flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of pasta.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use leftover sausage for a quick meal.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables for variety.
- Garnish with herbs just before serving for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including turkey or vegetarian options. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to the dish.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based options.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta works well, but short varieties like penne or rotini hold onto the sauce better, while long pasta like fettuccine adds a nice touch.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving to maintain its texture.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in a pasta bake or added to a salad for a hearty lunch. They can also be reheated for a quick dinner option the next day.
Conclusion
Chicken sausage pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful meal!
Chicken Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta your choice
- 2 chicken sausages sliced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 onion chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the sliced chicken sausages and cook until browned.
- Add chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
