Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

A creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and delightful textures. The combination of spicy chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes creates a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal easily.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect as a weeknight dinner or for special occasions; it fits any setting.
• Creamy Delight: The addition of half & half makes the pasta irresistibly creamy without being overly heavy.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables like spinach and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice for your family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables and cooking the sausage evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for perfectly cooked pasta that complements the sauce.
• Slotted spoon: Helps transfer pasta without losing any delicious sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

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 Components

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

Flavor Boosters

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

Greens and Cheese

• 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan Cheese

Finishing Touches

• Reserved Pasta Water
• 2 wedges fresh Lemon

How to Make Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by quartering 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 Your Vegetables

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 the oil and cook for 7-8 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In another pot, boil salted water. Cook medium shells until al dente (about one minute less than package directions). To coordinate timing, add the pasta once you’ve added the chicken sausage to your vegetable mix.

Step 4: Add Chicken Sausage and Garlic

Add fresh chicken sausage along with minced garlic into the skillet of softened vegetables. Cook for 5-6 minutes while breaking apart the sausage into smaller pieces as it browns. Mix in granulated sugar before pouring in half & half.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Stir until half & half is mostly absorbed into the sauce. Add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts down completely into your chicken sausage sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked shell pasta directly into your skillet. Reserve some pasta water first! Stir well to coat each piece of pasta in that creamy chicken sausage sauce.

Step 7: Final Touches

Stir in finely grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess. If desired, introduce reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste before finishing off with freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Serve immediately with extra parmesan if desired! Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is easy and satisfying. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that complements the creamy sauce.
• Parsley Sprigs: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor contrast.

Pair with Citrus

• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice on their pasta for extra brightness.
• Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top provides a burst of citrus aroma and flavor.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken breast can be added on top for those wanting more protein.
• Shrimp: For seafood lovers, sautéed shrimp makes a delicious addition to the pasta.

Present in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Serving: Serving the pasta in individual bowls creates an inviting atmosphere at your dining table.
• Layering Ingredients: Layering spinach and sausage before adding pasta keeps every bite flavorful.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Perfecting your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach ensures a delightful meal every time. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use high-quality chicken sausage for richer taste and texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Pasta Timing: Cook pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce, ensuring perfect texture.
• Adjust Creaminess: Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess without it becoming too runny.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning at the end for a well-balanced dish.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this recipe right after cooking for the best texture, as it may thicken as it cools.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers provide color and nutrients.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs well with the flavors of the pasta.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch that complements the meal perfectly.
6. Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta brings Italian flair, balancing creaminess with fresh tomato flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long can result in a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Not Seasoning the Vegetables: Failing to season your vegetables can leave your dish bland. Use salt and pepper as you sauté to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This water contains starch that helps thicken the sauce. Always reserve some before draining the pasta.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: Adding spinach too early can lead to overcooking it. Wait until the other ingredients are well combined before folding in the spinach.
• Neglecting Lemon Juice: Skipping lemon juice can dull the flavors of your dish. Always finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easier reheating.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat at medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey sausage instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative and will still provide excellent flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of Half & Half?

You can substitute Half & Half with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

How can I customize this Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, or switch up the cheese according to your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that appeal to many palates. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different veggies or proteins, making it an excellent go-to recipe. Give it a try!