Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This flavorful recipe combines spicy chicken sausage, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant spinach in a creamy sauce that will impress everyone at your table. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 40 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of spicy chicken sausage and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings; it pairs well with many flavors.
• Nutritious: Packed with spinach and tomatoes, this pasta is both hearty and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you begin preparing your creamy chicken sausage pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Pot for Boiling Pasta
• Slotted Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and cooking the chicken sausage evenly.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: Ensures you can cook your pasta perfectly al dente, which is crucial for texture.
• Slotted Spoon: Makes transferring pasta to the sauce easy without losing any delicious sauce.

Ingredients

A super flavorful, creamy pasta with spicy chicken sausage, tomatoes, spinach, and more!

Vegetables & Seasonings

• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper
• 1/2 Yellow Onion
• 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper
• Kosher Salt & freshly cracked Black Pepper

Pasta & Protein

• 1 1/2 cups Medium Shells (dried pasta)
• 8 oz. fresh chicken sausage

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp. Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Half & Half
• 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan Cheese
• Reserved Pasta Water
• 2 wedges fresh Lemon

How to Make Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Remove the stem and seeds from the red bell pepper. Finely chop both the red bell pepper and yellow onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, salt, and crushed red pepper. Stir everything together to coat in oil, then cook for about 7-8 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In boiling salted water, cook medium shells until al dente (about one minute less than package directions). To time this correctly, add pasta when adding chicken sausage to the skillet.

Step 4: Add Chicken Sausage

In the skillet with softened vegetables, add fresh chicken sausage and minced garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes while breaking up the sausage into small pieces. Stir in granulated sugar followed by half & half until mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Add baby spinach to the skillet and stir until fully wilted down into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked pasta directly into the skillet containing chicken sausage sauce. Stir well to coat all pasta in the sauce; turn off heat once mixed thoroughly.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Lemon

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. For creamier pasta, incorporate reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before stirring in lemon juice.

Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired! Enjoy your delightful plate of Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Garlic Bread: Serve this pasta alongside warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an extra cheesy experience.

Use Lemon Wedges

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta, enhancing freshness and acidity.

Garnish with Crushed Red Pepper

• Spicy Kick: Provide crushed red pepper flakes at the table for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meal.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

To make sure your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Season well at each step for maximum flavor.
• Bold flavors: Use fresh ingredients where possible. Fresh garlic and vegetables elevate the dish significantly.
• Bold timing: Cook the pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Bold adjustments: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half & half with a plant-based cream or milk alternative.
• Bold presentation: Serve immediately in warm bowls to keep the dish creamy and inviting.
• Bold creativity: Experiment by adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Oven-roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil and garlic brings a healthy crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a classic touch that complements pasta well.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provide a refreshing starter.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a vibrant color and taste contrast to creamy pasta.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers create an easy-to-eat appetizer.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs add an earthy flavor profile.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy give a sweet counterbalance to savory pasta flavors.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always check for al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season the vegetables and sauce adequately can make your dish bland. Remember to use salt and pepper generously throughout the cooking process.

• Skipping the Lemon Juice: Omitting lemon juice removes a key flavor element that balances richness. Always add fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright finish.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar ingredients can affect the overall taste. Choose fresh chicken sausage and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

• Not Saving Pasta Water: Discarding pasta water means losing a valuable tool for achieving creamy sauce consistency. Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce thickness later on.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil, reheating for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or beef sausage based on your preference.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of half & half.

What can I serve with Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach?

This pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is an enticing dish that combines rich flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner and offers plenty of opportunities for customization. Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a rich and creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach that transforms any meal into a delightful experience. This flavorful dish combines spicy chicken sausage, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also packed with nourishing ingredients. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a plateful of comfort that will impress everyone at your table. Elevate your dining experience by customizing spice levels or adding your favorite vegetables, making this pasta dish versatile and satisfying for all tastes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper
• 1/2 Yellow Onion
• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Medium Shells (dried pasta)
• 8 oz Fresh Chicken Sausage
• 4 cups Fresh Baby Spinach
• 1/2 cup Half & Half
• 1/3 cup Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Juice of 2 wedges Fresh Lemon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables by quartering the cherry tomatoes and chopping the bell pepper and onion.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the prepared vegetables in olive oil with salt and crushed red pepper for about 7-8 minutes until softened.
3. Cook medium shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then add to the skillet.
4. Add fresh chicken sausage and minced garlic to the skillet, breaking up the sausage as it cooks for about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in half & half, followed by baby spinach until wilted into the sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
7. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg