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Creamy Spring Pesto Chicken Sausage Pasta

creamy spring pesto chicken sausage pasta - featured image
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A quick and easy pasta dish combining creamy basil pesto sauce with savory chicken sausage, perfect for a fresh and comforting spring meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) chicken sausage, sliced (spicy Italian recommended)
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 2 cups (60 grams) fresh spinach (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn). If using cherry tomatoes and spinach, add them now. Cook tomatoes until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic and veggies. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in 1/3 cup (80 ml) basil pesto until fully incorporated, then add 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Return cooked sausage to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let the pasta warm through for another minute or two, stirring occasionally.
  7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side and fresh basil if available.

Notes

Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness. Keep reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with brown rice or chickpea pasta. For dairy-free, use coconut or cashew cream and vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto pasta, chicken sausage pasta, creamy pasta, spring recipe, easy dinner, quick pasta, basil pesto, comfort food

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/creamy-spring-pesto-chicken-sausage-pasta-recipe-easy-and-delicious/