This tasty chicken sausage pasta with zucchini is quick and satisfying. It’s loaded with juicy sausage and fresh zucchini, making it a yummy, colorful meal!
I enjoy how everything cooks in one pan—it saves time on cleanup! Plus, the mixing of flavors is just heavenly. I mean, who doesn’t love a simple dish that looks pretty too? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Any spiral pasta works great here! If you can’t find rotini, try fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier touch.
Chicken Sausage: I love chicken sausage for its flavor and lower fat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use veggie sausage or grilled tofu instead!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a mild flavor and great texture. If zucchinis aren’t in season, you can use yellow squash or even bell peppers for a crunchy alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and burst with flavor. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes work too—just drain excess juice!
Parmesan Cheese: For a different twist, go for pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Sausage is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken sausage evenly is key for great flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with medium heat so the sausage gets a nice brown color without burning.
- Make sure the sausage pieces aren’t overcrowded; this helps them brown well.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and heated through, flipping halfway.
Trust me, perfectly cooked sausage will enhance the overall taste of your pasta!
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or other spiral pasta)
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 2 medium zucchinis, cut into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Time Needed:
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sautĂ© for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—watch out not to burn it! Next, add the zucchini slices and cook, stirring occasionally, for around 5 minutes until they’re tender and slightly browned. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet with the veggies. Then, add the cooked pasta along with the chopped parsley. Gently toss everything together over low heat, just enough to mix and warm through.
5. Finish and Serve:
To finish, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan on top if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, colorful meal!
This straightforward recipe yields a delicious and hearty dish filled with tender chicken sausage, fresh zucchini, sweet tomatoes, and comforting pasta. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times slightly to keep everything at the right tenderness!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken sausage and cook the veggies ahead of time. Combine everything with the pasta just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and tasty.
