Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe elevates your pasta game. The blend of spicy chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet, allowing you to savor your meal without the hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken sausage, garlic, and fresh vegetables creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute different veggies or pasta types based on your preferences or what’s in season.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and robust flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with this flavorful dish, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Slotted Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing flavors to meld together.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Essential for achieving perfectly cooked pasta that complements the creamy sauce.
• Slotted Spoon: Helps transfer pasta directly into the sauce without losing any delicious flavor.

Ingredients

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

Fresh Vegetables

• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper
• 1/2 Yellow Onion

Cooking Essentials

• 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper
• Kosher Salt & freshly cracked Black Pepper

Pasta Base

• 1 1/2 cups Medium Shells (dried pasta)

Protein Source

• 8 oz. fresh chicken sausage

Flavor Boosters

• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp. Granulated Sugar

Creamy Component

• 1/2 cup Half & Half

Leafy Greens

• 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach

Garnish Options

• 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, then finely chop both the red bell pepper and yellow onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

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

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook medium shells in boiling salted water until al dente (about one minute less than package directions). To time this well, add the pasta when you add chicken sausage to the vegetables.

Step 4: Add Chicken Sausage

Add the fresh chicken sausage and minced garlic to the vegetable mixture. Cook for 5-6 minutes while breaking up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in granulated sugar and pour in half & half. Mix until mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked pasta shells directly into the skillet with chicken sausage and spinach sauce while reserving some pasta water. Stir well to coat all shells in sauce; turn off heat.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Stir in finely grated Parmesan cheese. For creamier pasta, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching desired creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Squeeze lemon juice over the dish before serving immediately. Optionally top with more Parmesan cheese if desired!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some ideas for serving this dish to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

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

Include Extra Cheese

• Parmesan or Mozzarella: Offer extra grated Parmesan or fresh mozzarella on the side for those who love a cheesy touch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for dipping into the creamy sauce—perfect for mopping up every last bite.

Top with Lemon Zest

• Zesty Finish: A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving adds freshness and enhances the citrus notes in the dish.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta nicely.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

To achieve the best results when making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes to ensure vibrant flavors in your dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta just right keeps it firm and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water before draining; it’s great for adjusting the creaminess of your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice levels to suit your preferences for a well-balanced flavor.
• Customize Spice Levels: If you enjoy more heat, consider adding additional crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to try different cheeses such as goat cheese or feta for unique flavors in your creamy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for savoring every bit of the creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition; think zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side option.
5. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and is an excellent way to boost veggie intake alongside your pasta.
6. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheese creates a flavorful starter that pairs well with pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Boldly skip the salt: Neglecting to season your pasta water can lead to bland pasta. Always add salt to boiling water before cooking your shells for better flavor.
• Boldly overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will result in mushy shells. Follow package instructions, cooking just until al dente for the best texture.
• Boldly ignore the reserved pasta water: This starchy water is essential for achieving a creamy sauce. Make sure to reserve some before draining the pasta.
• Boldly rush the vegetable cooking: If you don’t cook the vegetables long enough, they won’t soften properly and could impact the overall texture of the dish. Aim for 7-8 minutes of cooking time.
• Boldly forget about fresh ingredients: Using stale or overripe produce can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh tomatoes and spinach for vibrant taste and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While medium shells work well, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper or even some diced jalapeños while cooking.

Can I substitute chicken sausage with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be excellent alternatives that maintain great flavor in this recipe.

What if I don’t have Half & Half?

You can substitute it with equal parts milk and cream for a similar creamy consistency without altering the taste significantly.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Replace chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together flavors and textures perfectly. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—feel free to mix in different vegetables or proteins as desired. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!