This chicken sausage pasta is packed with flavor and light on the stomach! It combines juicy chicken sausage, fresh zucchini, and vibrant tomatoes for a colorful meal.
I love how quick this dish comes together. Just cook the pasta, sauté the veggies, and mix it all — it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🍝 Who wouldn’t want that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni works great for this recipe, but you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. If you want a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta; both will add a nice texture!
Chicken Sausage: The chicken sausage gives a wonderful flavor. If you can’t find it, try turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage if you want a meatless option. They all offer unique tastes!
Zucchini: Zucchini adds freshness and texture. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash or bell peppers are good alternatives. Both will still keep the dish colorful and flavorful!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, canned diced tomatoes can work; just drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan lends a rich flavor. If you prefer, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. For dairy-free options, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor too!
How Do You Cook Chicken Sausage Perfectly?
Cooking chicken sausage well really enhances its flavor. Follow these steps for a delicious result:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the sausage.
- Let the sausage sit without stirring for a few minutes to form a golden crust.
- Flip them to ensure they cook evenly. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
These tips help lock in moisture and flavor. Enjoy perfectly cooked chicken sausage that adds a great texture to your pasta!
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rigatoni or your favorite short pasta
For the Chicken Sausage:
- 12 oz chicken sausage links (about 3 to 4 links), sliced into bite-sized pieces
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and the remaining 20 minutes cooking the dish, which means dinner will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet, cooking and turning occasionally until the sausage is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Next, add the zucchini slices and cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is soft and the tomatoes start to blister, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet with the veggies. Then, stir in the drained pasta and give everything a good toss to mix it all together.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture and toss again until the cheese melts into a deliciously creamy coating. Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your pasta with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and don’t hesitate to top with extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling cheesy!
Enjoy this vibrant, comforting dish full of flavor from the savory chicken sausage, tender zucchini, and sweet burst tomatoes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
FAQ: Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage is delicious, you can substitute it with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times as different sausages may vary.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for More Servings?
To increase servings, simply multiply each ingredient by the desired number of servings. Just make sure to use a larger pot for cooking the pasta and a bigger skillet if you’re scaling up the vegetables and sausage!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead by cooking everything and then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out.
What Are Some Good Pairings for This Pasta Dish?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon makes for a perfect beverage to complement the meal!
