Chicken Sausage Creamy Pasta

This hearty chicken sausage pasta has been my weeknight dinner savior for years, combining the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and carbs in one delicious dish. The creamy goat cheese melts beautifully into the marinara sauce, creating a luxurious coating for every bite while keeping the recipe lighter than traditional cream-based pastas.

I first created this pasta during a particularly busy work week when I needed something nutritious but quick. It has since become my most requested dish when friends come over for casual dinners because it feels special despite being so simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• Pasta: I prefer rigatoni as the ridges and tube shape capture more sauce in each bite
• Olive oil: Just enough to prevent sticking and help brown the sausage
• Chicken sausages: Choose a flavorful variety like mild Italian with bell peppers for built in seasoning
• Mushrooms: Adds meaty texture and earthy flavor that complements the sausage perfectly
• Spinach: Wilts down beautifully and adds nutrition without overwhelming other flavors
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce to save time or homemade if you have it
• Goat cheese: Creates a creamy luxurious finish that elevates the entire dish
• Reserved pasta water: The starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta
• Optional toppings: Fresh herbs brighten the dish while parmesan adds umami depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente according to package directions typically 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining as this magical liquid will help create a silky sauce later. Drain pasta but do not rinse to preserve the starch that helps sauce adhere.

Brown the Chicken Sausage:

While your pasta water comes to a boil heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add your sliced chicken sausage in a single layer and resist the urge to move them around. Let them sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. This caramelization creates depth of flavor that makes the dish taste like it took hours to prepare. Flip and cook another 1 to 2 minutes until fully cooked.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the sliced mushrooms to the same pan with the sausage allowing them to pick up all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to release their moisture and turn golden. Add the chopped spinach and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until it wilts down significantly but still maintains some structure. The brief cooking preserves nutrients and prevents the spinach from becoming mushy.

Create the Sauce:

Reduce heat to low and pour in your marinara sauce stirring to combine with the sausage and vegetables. Add your cooked pasta directly to the pan and toss gently to coat every piece with sauce. Crumble the goat cheese over everything while still warm so it melts slightly creating pockets of creaminess throughout the dish. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water and toss again the starchy water will help the sauce cling to every bite of pasta.

Serve and Garnish:

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The dish should be served immediately while still hot with your choice of toppings. A sprinkle of grated parmesan fresh herbs or red pepper flakes can add personalized finishing touches that elevate the final presentation and flavor.

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment when the goat cheese hits the warm pasta and begins to melt creating little pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish. My daughter who normally picks around vegetables will eagerly devour this pasta spinach and all which feels like a small miracle at our dinner table.

Storage and Reheating

This chicken sausage pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days making it perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight as the ingredients have time to meld together. When reheating add a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce as it tends to thicken when chilled. Microwave covered for about 2 minutes stirring halfway through or gently reheat in a skillet over medium low heat until warmed through.

Customization Options

This recipe serves as a perfect foundation for endless variations based on what you have available. Swap chicken sausage for turkey or plant based alternatives for different dietary needs. Any pasta shape works well though tubular varieties like penne ziti or rigatoni capture sauce best. The vegetable components are highly adaptable too try bell peppers zucchini or kale instead of or in addition to the spinach and mushrooms. For a spicier version choose hot Italian chicken sausage and add red pepper flakes to taste.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this pasta makes a beautiful centerpiece for a casual dinner party when paired with complementary sides. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a peppery contrast to the rich pasta. Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. For wine pairings a medium bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato base perfectly while a crisp Pinot Grigio offers a refreshing counterpoint if you prefer white wine.

Nutrition Benefits

This pasta dish offers an impressive nutritional profile compared to traditional heavy pasta recipes. The chicken sausage provides lean protein while containing less fat than pork alternatives. Mushrooms add important minerals like selenium and B vitamins while spinach contributes iron vitamin K and folate. Using goat cheese instead of heavy cream creates creaminess with fewer calories and can be easier to digest for those with slight lactose sensitivity. The combination of protein fiber and complex carbohydrates helps maintain steady energy levels and satisfaction after your meal.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of chicken sausage works best?

Mild Italian chicken sausage pairs well, but any preferred flavor like spicy or herb can be used for variety.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold sauce nicely, but any shape you like will work.

→ Is it possible to substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, feta, ricotta, or cream cheese offer similar creaminess and tang. Adjust quantities to preference.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while cooking or choose a spicy chicken sausage for extra heat.

→ Are there vegetarian options?

Replace chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or extra mushrooms for a flavorful meat-free meal.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for best texture.