This Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a winner! It features tasty chicken sausage mixed with fresh zucchini, all tossed with your favorite pasta in a light sauce. Yum!
I love how quick this meal comes together, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or rigatoni for this dish due to their ability to hold sauce well. If you want a lighter option, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Chicken Sausage: Feel free to use turkey sausage if you’re looking for a lean option. Vegetarian sausage is also a great substitution for a meat-free version. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Zucchini: While zucchini adds a nice texture, you can swap it for yellow squash or bell peppers. Both work beautifully to add color and nutrients to your meal.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can be great alternatives for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
Cooking zucchini perfectly can be tricky. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the zucchini into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. This keeps them from cooking too fast.
- Add them to the skillet after the onions and garlic have cooked for a bit. This way, the zucchini absorbs flavor but still retains some crunch.
- Cook them just until they’re tender, usually around 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid browning too much.
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect zucchini texture in your pasta.
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
For the Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage links (mild or spicy), sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta but remember to save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later.
2. Brown the Sausage:
While your pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of spice, the red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for another 1 minute until you can smell the delicious aroma of garlic.
4. Add the Zucchini:
Toss in the sliced zucchini next. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is just tender, which should take around 4-5 minutes. You want it to maintain a slight crunch!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine), scraping any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let this simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together.
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If the pasta seems a little dry, add the reserved pasta water a bit at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the dish. Then, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great choices for a healthier option. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the pasta package for the best results, as cooking times may vary.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to help bring back moisture.
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the zucchini for other vegetables you enjoy, like bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked to your liking.
What Should I Do If the Pasta Seems Dry?
If your pasta looks dry, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired sauciness. This will help to moisten the dish without losing flavor.
