This Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With tender pasta coated in a rich cream sauce, paired with savory chicken sausage and a touch of garlic, this meal is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, takes less than 30 minutes, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta of choice)
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions for Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
2. Sauté the Sausage and Onions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
- Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
5. Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Sausage Options: You can use any variety of chicken sausage for this recipe, such as spicy, Italian, or smoked, depending on your preference.
- Pasta Variations: While penne works great, you can substitute with fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle for a fun change.
- Adjusting Spice: The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat to the dish. Adjust the amount to your liking or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Variations for Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta
1. Vegetable Additions
- Add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor, texture, and nutrition. Simply toss in the vegetables when you add the cream and broth to the skillet.
2. Lemon Garlic Chicken Sausage Pasta
- Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a fresh, tangy twist. Pair it with extra garlic for a bright, flavorful dish.
3. Spicy Chicken Sausage Pasta
- Use a spicy chicken sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk or even half-and-half for the heavy cream to make a lighter version. However, the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine just before serving.
A Creamy, Comforting Pasta Dish
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner any night of the week. The combination of the creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory chicken sausage makes it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
