Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Comfort food at its best! Creamy chicken sausage Pasta combines spicy chicken sausage with a rich tomato cream sauce, ready in just 20 minutes. This dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner that delights everyone at the table. Its creamy texture and robust flavors make it an excellent choice for various occasions, from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spicy chicken sausage and creamy tomato sauce creates a comforting dish full of flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps and easily accessible ingredients make this pasta dish perfect for novice cooks.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you enjoy your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken sausage and making the sauce quickly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking and prevents the rigatoni from clumping together.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy chicken sausage Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

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

Optional Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

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 Chicken Sausage

1. Heat butter over medium heat in a large skillet.
2. Add chicken sausage pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Add tomato paste to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, then stir in grated Parmesan until melted.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Toss cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Add ½ cup reserved cooking water as needed to reach desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
4. Finish off with chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy chicken sausage Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Serving Creamy chicken sausage Pasta is all about bringing out the flavors and making the meal visually appealing. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil leaves: Add whole or torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the tomato cream sauce.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Ciabatta rolls: These soft rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.

Offer Cheese Options

• Extra Parmesan: Serve grated Parmesan cheese on the side to let everyone add as much as they like.
• Crumbled feta: For a unique twist, crumbled feta cheese can add a salty zing that enhances the flavor profile.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

To ensure your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices. Taste as you go, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
• Stir consistently: Stirring the sauce while it simmers helps prevent burning and ensures an even texture.
• Use reserved pasta water: The starchy pasta water can help thicken your sauce and bind it better with the pasta.
• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents mushiness when mixing with the creamy sauce. It should have a slight bite to it.
• Experiment with proteins: Feel free to switch out chicken sausage for turkey or beef if you prefer different flavors.
• Keep ingredients fresh: Using fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients elevates the overall taste of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that complement your Creamy chicken sausage Pasta perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside; perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings depth and flavor to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an enjoyable appetizer before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your pasta turns out delicious.

• Skipping ingredient prep: Failing to prepare ingredients before cooking can lead to overcooked or burnt components. Always have everything ready to go.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking the rigatoni too long can result in mushy pasta. Aim for al dente by following package instructions closely.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning the sauce properly can lead to bland pasta. Taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save cooking water means losing a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Always reserve some before draining.
• Adding cream too early: Pouring in the heavy cream too soon can separate it in the sauce. Wait until you’ve added your spices for a smooth finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy chicken sausage pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy chicken sausage Pasta.

Can I use regular sausage instead of spicy chicken sausage?

Yes, you can use regular chicken or another type of sausage based on your preference. Just adjust seasonings accordingly.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese.

Is Creamy chicken sausage Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions for best results.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can customize this creamy chicken sausage pasta by experimenting with different herbs or adding more spices based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage Pasta is not just a quick meal; it’s also versatile and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it as is or decide to add your favorite veggies or spices, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try today!