Are you craving a comforting yet healthy dinner that's quick to make? Look no further! This chicken sausage pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes; this one is all about easy recipes and delicious dishes that won't compromise on taste or nutrition. This is one of the best recipes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (choose a low-sodium variety for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
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Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Build the Sauce: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage Pasta:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Boost the veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor. Add them along with the onions.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and add the cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken Sausage Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty twist.
- Spicy Sausage Pasta: Use spicy Italian chicken sausage for a fiery kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This healthy and delicious chicken sausage pasta recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It's a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and let us know what you think in the comments below! Remember to share your homemade cooking creations with us. We love seeing your culinary adventures.