Pasta dishes are beloved worldwide for their versatility and comforting nature. Chicken sausage, with its savory flavor and ease of preparation, elevates pasta from simple to spectacular. This guide explores various chicken sausage pasta recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels. We'll explore different sauces, vegetables, and cooking techniques to inspire your culinary creativity.
What Kind of Chicken Sausage is Best for Pasta?
This is a frequently asked question, and the answer depends on your preferred flavor profile. Mild Italian chicken sausage offers a subtle, savory base that pairs well with many ingredients. Spicy chicken sausage adds a kick, while sun-dried tomato or other flavored varieties bring unique complexity. Experiment to discover your favorite! Look for sausages that are fully cooked; this simplifies the cooking process.
Simple Chicken Sausage Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners. It's quick, easy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 lb fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the sauce and heat through.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce and sausage. Toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately.
Spicy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Arrabbiata Sauce
For those who love a little heat, this recipe delivers. The arrabbiata sauce, with its vibrant blend of tomatoes and chili flakes, perfectly complements the savory chicken sausage.
Ingredients: (similar to above, but adding chili flakes and potentially other vegetables like onions and bell peppers)
Instructions: (similar to above, but incorporating chili flakes earlier in the sauce-making process)
Chicken Sausage Pasta with Creamy Pesto Sauce
This recipe offers a lighter, fresher take on chicken sausage pasta. The pesto sauce adds a vibrant green color and herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage.
Ingredients: (Pasta, chicken sausage, pesto, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese)
Instructions: (Similar to the Creamy Tomato Sauce recipe, substituting pesto for the tomato sauce base)
What vegetables pair well with chicken sausage pasta?
Many vegetables complement chicken sausage pasta. Bell peppers, both red and green, add sweetness and texture. Onions provide depth of flavor, and mushrooms offer an earthy counterpoint. Spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce at the end for added nutrients. Consider seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavor.
Can I use leftover chicken sausage in pasta?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken sausage works perfectly in pasta dishes. Simply slice it and add it to your chosen sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This saves time and reduces food waste.
How do I make chicken sausage pasta ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta and heat the sauce just before serving, adding the chicken sausage during the last few minutes. This makes for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
What kind of pasta works best with chicken sausage?
Most pasta shapes work well with chicken sausage. Penne, rotini, fusilli, and farfalle are all excellent choices because they hold the sauce well. However, feel free to experiment! Long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine are also delicious options.
By exploring these variations and adding your own creative twists, you can create a multitude of delicious and satisfying chicken sausage pasta recipes that will become family favorites. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preferences for the ultimate culinary experience.
