Chicken Sausage Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Sausage Pasta after a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish; the enticing aroma filled my kitchen, drawing in my family like a magnet. It’s easy to whip up and brings together a delightful medley of flavors that sing in harmony. Imagine savoring each bite, the creamy marinara sauce clinging to the tender pasta, with juicy pieces of chicken sausage and vibrant broccoli adding just the right touch of heartiness. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones around the table, sharing laughter and stories over a deliciously satisfying dish.

Chicken Sausage Pasta Ingredients

The beauty of the ingredients in this Chicken Sausage Pasta lies in their simplicity and harmony. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing the dish to life. The hearty chicken sausage provides protein and a savory depth, while the broccoli adds a splash of color and crunch. The creamy half and half melds the flavors together beautifully, creating a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta.

• 1 head broccoli (cut into small florets) – Fresh and vibrant, broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• 12 ounces short pasta (such as farfalle or penne) – The star of the dish, this pasta serves as the perfect vehicle for the rich sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This golden oil helps to sauté and flavor the other ingredients, creating a fragrant base for the dish.
• 12 ounces Italian-style chicken sausage (cut into coins) – These flavorful sausage pieces infuse the pasta with a savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) – A fragrant addition, garlic enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a delightful aroma to the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a hint of heat, these flakes add a subtle kick.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – The backbone of the dish, marinara sauce provides a rich, tangy flavor that elevates the entire meal.
• ½ cup half and half (room temperature) – This creamy ingredient adds a luxurious texture to the sauce, making it irresistible.
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving) – The finishing touch, parmesan cheese brings a nutty flavor and salty bite that ties all the elements together.

How to Cook Chicken Sausage Pasta

Cooking Chicken Sausage Pasta is a breeze, making it a perfect choice for a family meal. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to a dish that not only looks great but tastes even better!

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. It’s important to use enough water so the pasta can move freely. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare a large bowl with ice water to cool the broccoli later.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli florets. Cook them for about one to two minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. They should be vibrant and not too soft. Afterward, use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and keeps them beautifully green.
3. Next, add the short pasta to the same boiling water. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around eight to ten minutes for al dente. Reserve about one cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Remember, don’t rinse the pasta as you want to keep the starch to help the sauce stick later.
4. In a large sauté pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage in an even layer. Let it cook for about two to four minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through. You want a nice, golden color to enhance the flavor.
5. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook these for one to two minutes, stirring until fragrant, ensuring they don’t burn.
6. Return the broccoli and the sausage back to the pan, stirring to combine them with the garlic and oil. The sautéed mix should smell incredible at this point!
7. Pour in the marinara sauce and the room-temperature half and half. Stir well and allow it to cook for about one to two minutes until everything is warmed through. This creates a luscious sauce that envelops all the ingredients.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the parmesan cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
9. Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve!
10. Serve the Chicken Sausage Pasta hot, topped with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the wholesome goodness with your loved ones!

Expert Tips about Chicken Sausage Pasta

Creating a perfect Chicken Sausage Pasta requires a few expert tips. Here’s how to make this dish even better!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve this pasta with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to your dish.
• Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Great Combinations for Chicken Sausage Pasta

When serving your Chicken Sausage Pasta, consider these delightful combinations to enhance your meal experience:

• Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this pasta, balancing the creaminess.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting touch that everyone loves.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy a light sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea to complement the dish.
• Lunch Option: This pasta makes for a great leftover lunch, simply pack it in a container for work or school.
• Seasonal Accompaniments: In summer, add some grilled vegetables on the side; in fall, a pumpkin soup can be a lovely starter.
• Festive Occasions: Perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, making it a versatile choice for all occasions.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Sausage Pasta is truly a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite among your loved ones. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy of sharing a delicious meal together!

Chicken Sausage Pasta

The ultimate comfort food that satisfies cravings, Chicken Sausage Pasta combines creamy sauce with tender pasta and flavorful chicken sausage, making it the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Gather your family and enjoy this delightful dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 head broccoli cut into small florets
• 12 ounces short pasta such as farfalle or penne
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 12 ounces Italian-style chicken sausage cut into coins
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for spice
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup half and half room temperature
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese plus more for serving

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Skillet
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. It's important to use enough water so the pasta can move freely. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare a large bowl with ice water to cool the broccoli later.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli florets. Cook them for about one to two minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. They should be vibrant and not too soft. Afterward, use a slotted spoon to transfer the broccoli to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and keeps them beautifully green.
3. Next, add the short pasta to the same boiling water. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around eight to ten minutes for al dente. Reserve about one cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Remember, don’t rinse the pasta as you want to keep the starch to help the sauce stick later.
4. In a large sauté pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage in an even layer. Let it cook for about two to four minutes per side until they're browned and cooked through. You want a nice, golden color to enhance the flavor.
5. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook these for one to two minutes, stirring until fragrant, ensuring they don’t burn.
6. Return the broccoli and the sausage back to the pan, stirring to combine them with the garlic and oil. The sautéed mix should smell incredible at this point!
7. Pour in the marinara sauce and the room-temperature half and half. Stir well and allow it to cook for about one to two minutes until everything is warmed through. This creates a luscious sauce that envelops all the ingredients.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the parmesan cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
9. Finally, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve!
10. Serve the Chicken Sausage Pasta hot, topped with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the wholesome goodness with your loved ones!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve this pasta with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to your dish.
• Tip 5: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.