35-Minute Chicken Sausage Pasta

There’s something magical that happens when you bring together the warm, inviting scent of sautéed garlic and the hearty charm of chicken sausage on a busy weeknight. Picture this: you’re juggling work, family, and life’s little surprises, yet you’re craving a meal that feels like a comforting hug. Enter my 35-Minute Chicken Sausage Pasta – a dish so flavorful and satisfying that it’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for those bustling evenings.

You know those moments when you just need to whip up something quick, yet you also want it to taste like you put in hours of effort? This recipe is just that! It embodies warmth, togetherness, and the joy of home-cooked comforts, all while taking a mere 35 minutes of your evening.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Duration: 35 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 380
• Protein: 24 grams
• Carbs: 42 grams
• Fats: 15 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugars: 3 grams
• Sodium: 700 mg

Why You’ll Love This 35-Minute Chicken Sausage Pasta

What’s not to love? It’s a one-pan wonder that combines the delightful chew of penne pasta, the savory flavor of chicken sausage, and bursts of freshness from cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. Each bite is a melody of textures and tastes that’ll be sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile enough for you to throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand!

The Complete Cooking Journey

This dish is the essence of straightforward deliciousness. We start with cooking the pasta to perfection—that satisfying al dente bite—while our skillet works its magic on the chicken sausage and vegetables. Garlic sizzles and mingles with cherry tomatoes, releasing aromas that beckon your loved ones into the kitchen. Finally, we marry everything together, creating a sumptuous pasta dish that you’ll be proud to serve.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Method:

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

Add the sliced chicken sausage, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes

Stir in garlic and cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Mixture

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; toss everything to combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil to elevate the flavors further.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This pasta is delicious on its own, but feel free to elevate your dinner with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up those delicious juices. A glass of your favorite white wine or a refreshing homemade lemonade pairs perfectly with this dish, making it ideal for a family gathering or a cozy night in.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive its former glory.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Pasta Perfect: Always remember to salt your pasta water! It’s the simplest way to season your noodles from the inside out.
• Sausage Swap: Feel free to use turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.
• Veggie Variation: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor if you have them in the fridge!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

• Try using different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle based on what you have.
• For extra creaminess, stir in some cream cheese or a dollop of ricotta before serving.
• Add a splash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use regular sausage instead of chicken sausage?
   Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different sausages have different fat contents.

2. What if I don’t have penne?
   Any short pasta will work! Macaroni, rotini, or even whole wheat varieties will taste great.

3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
   Swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth for cooking the pasta.

4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes! Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas would work beautifully. Just sauté them with the onion and bell pepper.

5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
   Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave it in short intervals.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it—a simple yet elegant dish that can bring warmth and flavor to your table in just 35 minutes. Whether it’s a family dinner, a last-minute guest meal, or your special treat after a long day, this Chicken Sausage Pasta is bound to impress without weighing you down. My hope is that you’ll enjoy this dish as much as I do, bringing a taste of comfort right to your home. Happy cooking!

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