Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Comfort food at its best! This Creamy chicken sausage Pasta combines spicy chicken sausage with a rich tomato cream sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spicy chicken sausage and creamy tomato sauce creates mouthwatering flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Great for casual dinners or more formal occasions; pairs well with various sides.
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it ideal for novice cooks.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools and get everything ready. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken sausage evenly while allowing enough space for other ingredients.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the rigatoni cooks properly to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

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

For Garnish (Optional)

• 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 sausages and cut them into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

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

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Heat butter over medium in a large skillet. Add chicken sausage and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, then add tomato paste, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in heavy cream and bring the sauce to a boil. Reduce heat to low, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Toss in rigatoni along with ½ cup of reserved cooking water. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Finish off with parsley before serving. Enjoy!

This Creamy chicken sausage Pasta not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a delightful meal that is both easy to prepare and full of flavor!

How to Serve Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Creamy chicken sausage pasta is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
• Chopped Parsley – Add parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan – Offer extra grated Parmesan on the side for those who love cheesy goodness.
• Mozzarella – Melt mozzarella on top for a creamy, gooey finish.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens – A simple salad with vinaigrette adds balance to the meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• French Baguette – A toasted baguette is great for scooping up any leftover sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Achieving the perfect creamy chicken sausage pasta is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use High-Quality Sausage – Start with good-quality spicy chicken sausage for better flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook rigatoni until al dente; it will absorb the sauce better.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Keep some cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Balance Seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure optimal flavors.
• Add Vegetables – Consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
• Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

Pairing your creamy chicken sausage pasta with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, ideal for mopping up sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing make a refreshing side.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and vibrant color.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs offer a flavorful contrast.
5. Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an impressive starter or side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind while making creamy chicken sausage pasta:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Not preparing your ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos. Always mince garlic, grate cheese, and cut sausage before you start.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rigatoni too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente texture for the best results.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta cooking water means missing out on an easy way to adjust sauce consistency. Always keep a cup handy.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Under-seasoning can dull flavors. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent flavors from developing. Allow enough time for the tomato paste and spices to blend.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy chicken sausage pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool down before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Creamy chicken sausage Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamy chicken sausage pasta:

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute spicy chicken sausage with turkey or beef sausage according to your taste preferences.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or spices such as crushed red pepper flakes for added warmth.

How do I make it dairy-free?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for fresh results.

What should I serve with creamy chicken sausage pasta?

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

Final Thoughts

Creamy chicken sausage pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. This dish allows for many customization options, whether adding veggies or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!