Are you ready to whip up a comforting meal that’s both tasty and easy to make? I’m excited to share my favorite Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta recipe! With its rich flavors and colorful ingredients, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Let’s dive in and cook something amazing together!

Cook Time: 20

Prep Time: 10

Yields: 8

Calories: 454

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a tasty Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta.This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutritious veggies that’ll make your taste buds sing. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound radiatore pasta: This fun-shaped pasta holds sauce beautifully, but feel free to substitute with any pasta you love.
1 bunch chopped kale: A powerhouse of nutrients, kale adds both color and health benefits to your meal.
1 (10-ounce) package Smoked Gouda Chicken Sausage: This adds a delightful smokiness and protein punch. I recommend trying Gilbert’s® brand for its great flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: You’ll use this for sautéing to give your veggies a nice flavor boost.
1 ½ cups portobello mushrooms, quartered: These hearty mushrooms add umami and texture to the dish.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: A classic base for flavor, onion brings sweetness and depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant kick; don’t skip it!
Pinch of salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: This gives just the right amount of heat. adjust according to your spice preference.
1 (20-ounce) jar marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand; it will be the heart of the creamy sauce.
¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth: This enriches your sauce without overpowering it.
½ cup heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this on top enhances the flavor and makes the dish feel gourmet.

with these simple and fresh ingredients, you’re on your way to a cozy meal that’s both flavorful and wholesome.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of goodness in no time!

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the radiatore pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 12 minutes, until it’s al dente. stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When it’s ready, reserve some of the pasta water before draining.

Blanch the Kale: In the same pot of boiling water, add the chopped kale. Blanch for about 1 minute until the kale brightens in color. then, quickly transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. once cool, drain and roughly chop it.

Sear the Sausage: Slice the Smoked Gouda Chicken Sausage into thin discs. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the sausage. Sear until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove them and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, pour in the olive oil. Add portobello mushrooms, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the onions become translucent.

combine Everything: Stir in the blanched kale, seared sausage, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes.Add in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Adjust the thickness to your liking by adding some reserved pasta water if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy: divide the cooked radiatore among serving bowls,top generously with the creamy sauce,and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.Dig in and enjoy your flavorful creation!

With these steps, you’ll create a delightful and hearty pasta that’s perfect for any occasion!

Serving and Storage Facts for Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta

Once you’ve made this delightful Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta, it’s time to think about how best to serve and store it. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and makes excellent leftovers,which I appreciate. here’s how to get the most out of your delicious creation:

Serving suggestions:

Portion Size: This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it great for family meals or meal prep for the week.Serve it directly in bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Pairing: I love to pair this pasta with a simple side salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette or even garlic bread for some added crunch. A glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, cool the pasta to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for later enjoyment. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container, and it should keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat,gently thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of heavy cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

With these serving and storage tips, you’ll enjoy this comforting pasta dish as fresh as the day you made it!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta

Let’s talk about some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure your Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta turns out perfectly every time. Cooking is all about adjustments and finding what works for you, so keep these points in mind:

Key Notes:

Ingredient Substitutions: If you can’t find radiatore pasta, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works great too. For a lighter option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is a viable choice.
Vegetable Varieties: Feel free to switch up the vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can also add flavor and nutrition. If you like extra veggies, consider adding them in the sautéing step.
Sausage Choices: Whether you prefer chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage, the choice is yours. Each type will impart a unique flavor profile,so choose one that appeals to you.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Sauce Too Thick: If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Overcooked Pasta: If your pasta is overcooked, try adding it directly to the sauce for a minute or two on low heat with some extra broth to help meld the flavors.
Too Spicy: if the dish turns out spicier than you expected, balance it out by adding a bit more cream or a tablespoon of sugar to tone down the heat.

Keeping these notes and troubleshooting tips in mind will help you create a comforting dish every time you make this Creamy Kale and Chicken Sausage Pasta! Enjoy your cooking adventure!