Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

A Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive gathering. This recipe combines the savory flavors of spicy chicken sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce, making it irresistibly tasty. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
• Creamy Texture: The use of Half & Half gives the pasta a rich and creamy finish that everyone will love.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and fun pasta shape, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you prepare the dish efficiently and effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is crucial for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the chicken sausage evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good-sized pot ensures your pasta cooks properly without sticking together.

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
• 2 wedges fresh Lemon

Other Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper
• Kosher Salt & freshly cracked Black Pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Medium Shells (dried pasta)
• 8 oz. fresh chicken sausage
• 1/2 tsp. Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Half & Half
• 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan Cheese
• Reserved Pasta Water

How to Make Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Quarter 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes.
2. Remove the stem and seeds from the red bell pepper.
3. Finely chop 1/2 Red Bell Pepper and 1/2 Yellow Onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 Tbsp. Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion with a pinch of salt and 1/2 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper.
3. Stir to coat everything in the oil, then cook for 7-8 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook 1 1/2 cups Medium Shells in boiling salted water until al dente (about one minute less than package directions).
2. To time this best, pour the pasta into boiling water when adding chicken sausage to soften vegetables.

Step 4: Add Chicken Sausage

1. Add 8 oz. fresh chicken sausage and minced garlic to the pan with veggies.
2. Cook for 5-6 minutes while breaking apart the chicken sausage as it cooks.
3. Stir in 1/2 tsp. Granulated Sugar.
4. Pour in 1/2 cup Half & Half and stir until mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Mix in Spinach

1. Stir in 4 cups fresh Baby Spinach until wilted down into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked pasta shells into the sauce while reserving some pasta water.
2. Stir to coat fully in the chicken sausage sauce; turn off heat under skillet.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Stir in 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan Cheese.
2. For creamier pasta, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
3. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving immediately (with extra parmesan if desired)!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, presentation plays a key role. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this flavorful dish.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds freshness and color.

Add Extra Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta cheese can enhance the creamy texture and flavor.

Pair with Lemon Wedges

• Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add a zesty touch, enhancing the overall taste.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Garnish with Crushed Red Pepper

• For those who love spice, a pinch of crushed red pepper on top will add an extra kick.

Present in Individual Bowls

• Serving portions in individual bowls creates an appealing presentation and makes it easy for guests to serve themselves.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Creating the perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and nutrition.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked just right; it should be firm yet tender, which helps it hold up in the sauce.

• Adjust Creaminess: Stir in reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess level.

• Season Well: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to enhance the flavors throughout the dish.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for additional depth of flavor.

• Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh; serve it right away for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

Complementing your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach with side dishes can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing provides a nice crunch and balances the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, flavor, and nutrients to your meal.

4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that’s also visually appealing next to the pasta.

5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the dish.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil enhance both taste and presentation.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and fiber while adding an interesting texture alongside the pasta.

8. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad can provide a refreshing finish to your meal, balancing flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch for while preparing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for a tender but firm texture, cooking until just softened.
• Not Salting the Pasta Water: Unsalted pasta water can result in bland noodles. Always add salt to boiling water before adding the pasta for better flavor.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This starchy water helps create a creamy sauce that clings to your pasta. Don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Using Low-Quality Chicken Sausage: The sausage is a key flavor component, so opt for high-quality fresh chicken sausage for the best taste and texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and tomatoes enhances flavor and nutrition. Always choose fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute turkey or beef sausage based on your preference.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta shells as a direct substitute for regular pasta.

What can I add to customize Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach?

Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture!

How long does it take to prepare Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

While fresh spinach is recommended for its texture, frozen spinach can be used; just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with Spinach is not only delicious but also offers room for customization based on your tastes. Whether you want to add more vegetables or spice up the flavors, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please!