Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken Sausage is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that pairs creamy marinara sauce with slices of savory chicken sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. It’s a fantastic comfort food that brings together the perfect blend of textures, including the tenderness of pasta, the crunch of broccoli, and the succulent taste of Italian sausage. This dish is elevated with the addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, making it the ideal meal for any occasion, whether it’s a quick dinner for the family or a special gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or bowtie pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 links Italian-style chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups broccoli florets (or baby spinach)
- ½ tsp kosher salt, to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sear the Sausage In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Build the Sauce Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add marinara and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Veggies & Sausage Stir in broccoli (or spinach) and cooked sausage. Simmer until veggies are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Combine & Finish Add drained pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir in Parmesan and fresh basil. Toss until everything is coated and creamy.
Notes
For a richer flavor, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or a splash of heavy cream before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes for a spicy, aromatic finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta with Chicken Sausage