Sweet Apple Chicken Sausage Pasta
This Sweet Apple Chicken Sausage Pasta is a delicious combination of savory and subtly sweet flavors. Tender chicken sausage with a hint of apple, combined with fresh vegetables, garlic, and al dente pasta, creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s both nutritious and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g penne pasta
- 12 oz 340g sweet apple chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the sausage and vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sweet apple chicken sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the onions and peppers: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add garlic and deglaze: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Combine sausage and pasta: Return the sausage to the skillet and stir in the cooked pasta. Add the spinach and toss until the spinach is wilted.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Toss everything together to ensure it's well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape, such as fusilli or rigatoni.
- For a creamier texture, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth.