Chicken Sausage With Pasta and Tomato Sauce: A Taste of Home

The scent of simmering tomatoes always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and her tomato sauce, always bubbling away on the stove, was the heart of countless family meals. This Chicken Sausage with Pasta and Tomato Sauce evokes that same comforting feeling. It’s a dish that’s both fresh and flavorful, a satisfying and surprisingly quick meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Varies (can be adapted to be gluten-free)

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 12 ounces chicken sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch thick wedges
• 1⁄2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• 8 fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1⁄4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large non-stick skillet

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the pot. This will ensure they’re perfectly tender without becoming mushy.

2. Once the pasta and peas are cooked, drain them well, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is liquid gold – it will help bind the sauce to the pasta later on, creating a beautifully emulsified and flavorful dish.

3. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add the chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until it is browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausage. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

5. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sausage.

6. Slice the cooked sausage into 1/2-inch thick slices. This will make it easier to incorporate into the pasta and sauce.

7. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in the same skillet that the sausage was cooked in. The residual sausage flavor in the pan will add depth to the sauce.

8. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The onions should become translucent and the garlic should release its aromatic oils.

9. Stir in the fresh tomato wedges, white wine (or chicken broth), fresh basil leaves, salt, and pepper. The wine adds a touch of acidity and complexity, while the broth provides a more subtle flavor.

10. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to reduce, about 8 minutes. As the tomatoes cook, they will release their juices and break down, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. The basil leaves will infuse the sauce with their distinctive aroma.

11. Toss the cooked pasta and peas with the tomato sauce and sliced sausage. Gently fold everything together until well combined.

12. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. This adds a salty, savory element and helps to thicken the sauce.

13. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This helps to create a cohesive and glossy sauce that clings to the pasta.

14. Sprinkle with the thinly sliced fresh basil for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.

15. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, use Italian sausage instead of chicken sausage.
• If you don’t have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can substitute a can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
• Don’t overcook the pasta! Aim for al dente – slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
• To make ahead, prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve.
• For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Sausage with Pasta and Tomato Sauce immediately for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a beautiful presentation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and sauce may become mushy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	639 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	26.1 g	40%
Saturated Fat	6.9 g	34%
Cholesterol	107.6 mg	35%
Sodium	1649.4 mg	68%
Total Carbohydrate	75.2 g	25%
Dietary Fiber	12.8 g	51%
Sugars	12.7 g	N/A
Protein	24.5 g	49%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken sausage and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese at the end for a creamier sauce.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary, in addition to or instead of basil.
• Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be used instead of Parmesan.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 8 fresh basil leaves. Add it to the sauce along with the other dried seasonings.

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes for the fresh tomatoes. Reduce the cooking time of the sauce accordingly.

Q: How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
A: Be sure to cook the pasta in plenty of salted water. After draining, toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce. Add them along with the onions and garlic and cook until softened.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sausage with Pasta and Tomato Sauce is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients and create a comforting meal that your family will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback! Pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of Chianti for a complete and delightful Italian-inspired meal. Buon appetito!