Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Comfort food at its best! This Creamy chicken sausage Pasta features spicy chicken sausage in a rich tomato cream sauce, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or any occasion when you crave something delicious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spicy chicken sausage and creamy tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite pasta or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with minimal pots and pans required for cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the sausage and mixing in the creamy sauce, ensuring even cooking.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A good-sized pot allows you to cook the rigatoni properly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping garlic and preparing other ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For this delicious Creamy chicken sausage Pasta, you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 14 ounces rigatoni

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 11 ounces spicy chicken sausage
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Get your prep done before you start cooking:
1. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Grate the Parmesan cheese.
3. Remove casings from the chicken sausages and cut them into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

1. Boil rigatoni in generously salted water until al dente.
2. Drain when ready, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

1. Heat butter over medium in a large skillet.
2. Add chicken sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add tomato paste and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

1. Stir in oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, then stir in grated Parmesan until melted.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

1. Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce along with ½ cup of reserved cooking water.
2. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt if needed.
3. Finish off with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Creamy chicken sausage Pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta is a delightful experience that can cater to various tastes. You can elevate your dish with simple yet complementary sides and garnishes that enhance the flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Grated Parmesan: Extra cheese on top provides a savory boost that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the hearty pasta.
• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing contrast nicely with the smooth texture of the dish.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter makes for an irresistible side that complements the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the sauce, a freshly baked baguette adds a satisfying crunch.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

To achieve the best Creamy chicken sausage Pasta, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken sausage elevate the taste of your pasta significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook rigatoni until al dente for a perfect texture that holds up well in the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved cooking water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Keep your cream sauce on low heat to avoid curdling while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for additional flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Complementing your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta with delightful side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious vegetable that adds color and crunch; simply steam until tender.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus spears with olive oil and roast until crisp-tender for a flavorful side.
3. Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction for a refreshing option.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth potatoes infused with garlic provide an extra layer of comfort alongside your pasta.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Season zucchini slices and grill them for a smoky flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare your ingredients ahead of time. This ensures a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
• Overcooking the pasta: Boil rigatoni only until al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and won’t hold up in the sauce.
• Neglecting to taste the sauce: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary for a well-balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Quality matters! Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality chicken sausage for the best taste.
• Not reserving pasta water: Reserve some cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy chicken sausage Pasta you might have:

Can I use other types of sausage?

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

What can I serve with Creamy chicken sausage Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.

How long does it take to make Creamy chicken sausage Pasta?

It takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy chicken sausage Pasta is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, making it your own. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!