Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

A creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach is the perfect blend of flavors for any occasion. This dish combines spicy chicken sausage, fresh vegetables, and rich creaminess to create a satisfying meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of chicken sausage, spinach, and tomatoes creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish for gatherings and special occasions.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, this pasta is both delicious and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you efficiently prepare this delightful dish.

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 the pasta cooks perfectly al dente without sticking.
• Slotted spoon: Helps transfer the cooked pasta directly into the sauce without excess water.

Ingredients

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

Fresh Produce

• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper
• 1/2 Yellow Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach

Pantry Staples

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

Pasta & Protein

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

Dairy & Garnish

• 1/2 cup Half & Half
• 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

Start by quartering the cherry tomatoes. Remove the stem and seeds from the red bell pepper and finely chop both the red bell pepper and yellow onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, a pinch of salt, and crushed red pepper. Stir well and cook for about 7–8 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring salted water to boil. Add 1 1/2 cups of medium shells and cook until al dente (about one minute less than package instructions). To time it best, add the pasta when you introduce the chicken sausage to the skillet.

Step 4: Add Chicken Sausage

To the vegetable mixture in the skillet, add 8 oz. of fresh chicken sausage along with minced garlic. Cook for about 5–6 minutes while breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces. Stir in granulated sugar before pouring in half & half.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Once most of the half & half is absorbed by the sausage mixture, stir in 4 cups of fresh baby spinach until fully wilted down.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked pasta directly into the skillet with chicken sausage sauce while reserving some pasta water. Mix well to coat all shells in sauce before turning off heat.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Lemon

Stir in finely grated Parmesan cheese. For creaminess, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Finish by stirring in freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving immediately with extra parmesan if desired!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and add freshness.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over each serving for a cheesy finish that enhances flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or parsley adds an aromatic touch and brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• Providing lemon wedges allows guests to add a fresh squeeze of citrus, enhancing the overall taste profile of the pasta.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Creating the perfect creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use al dente pasta: Cooking your pasta al dente ensures it retains its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Fresh ingredients matter: Opt for fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality chicken sausage for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Adjust creaminess: Control the creaminess by adding reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
• Season well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning; a pinch of salt or pepper can make all the difference in flavor depth.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your creamy chicken sausage pasta with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and seasonings, then roast until tender.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing for a satisfying crunch.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that pairs well with creamy sauces.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to rich pasta.
5. Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances both color and nutrition on your plate.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for an eye-catching side that complements hearty mains.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to savory dishes while adding extra fiber and nutrients.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs offers a light appetizer before indulging in your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious dish every time.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Cooking your pasta too long can lead to mushy shells. Aim for al dente, which provides the perfect texture.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste as you cook and adjust with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality vegetables can diminish the dish’s taste. Always opt for fresh tomatoes and spinach for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring the Pasta Water: This starchy water is essential for creating a creamy sauce. Reserve some before draining your pasta to achieve the desired consistency.
• Overloading on Cheese: While cheese adds richness, too much can overwhelm other flavors. Measure out your Parmesan carefully for balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into individual servings for easier reheating.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to swap out chicken sausage for turkey or beef sausage based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shells, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs like basil or oregano, or even a splash of lemon juice for added zest!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

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Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach

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

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Description

Creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach is a delightful dish that perfectly marries flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. This recipe features spicy chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. With wholesome ingredients and a satisfying blend of flavors, this pasta dish is bound to impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 red bell pepper
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 1/2 cups medium shell pasta (dried)
• 8 oz. fresh chicken sausage
• 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: Quarter the cherry tomatoes and chop the bell pepper and onion.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, salt, and crushed red pepper. Cook until softened (7–8 minutes).
3. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook medium shells until al dente (about one minute less than package instructions).
4. Add chicken sausage: Incorporate the chicken sausage and minced garlic into the vegetable mixture; cook while breaking up the sausage for about 5–6 minutes.
5. Incorporate spinach: Stir in fresh baby spinach until wilted.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked pasta into the skillet. Mix well to coat all shells in sauce.
7. Finish with cheese and lemon: Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water for desired creaminess; season as necessary and finish with lemon juice.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg