Ready for a hearty meal that feels both special and effortless on a busy weeknight? The Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet brings together golden bites of chicken sausage, vibrant spinach, gooey mozzarella, and a robust homemade (or store-bought) marinara sauce—all tossed together and baked to bubbling perfection. It’s comfort food with a fresh twist, perfect for family dinners or simply indulging yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Satisfying: A one-skillet meal loaded with flavorful chicken sausage, tender pasta, and cheesy goodness—there’s something in every bite!
- Fast and Fuss-Free: Get dinner on the table in just 40 minutes, and clean-up is a breeze thanks to minimal pots and pans.
- Customizable Comfort: Easily make it your own by switching up the greens, sausage, or cheese, or use your favorite store-bought sauce.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This skillet is made for sharing—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or stocking up on leftovers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t you love it when a recipe calls for straightforward ingredients you probably already have? Each addition here plays a key role, from the zesty brightness of fresh herbs to melty cheese that ties everything together in this Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies and brown the sausage for maximum flavor.
- Red onions: They provide a subtle sweetness and beautiful color to the sauce.
- Garlic: Just a couple of cloves make the sauce sing with aromatic depth.
- Crushed tomatoes: A good quality can is the secret to a luscious, hearty marinara base.
- Honey or sugar: Just a touch balances the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the sauce.
- Fresh parsley and basil: These herbs add freshness, vibrancy, and that unmistakable Italian flair.
- Dried oregano: For a hint of earthy, savory warmth in every bite.
- Penne pasta: Its shape holds the sauce perfectly, making every bite saucy and satisfying.
- Chicken sausage: Choose your favorite style—mild, spicy, smoked, or herbed—for protein-packed, juicy chunks.
- Baby spinach: Adds a pop of green that wilts beautifully into the pasta for both nutrients and color.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, bubbling perfection atop the skillet.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Makes the dish look restaurant-worthy—plus a little extra freshness never hurt!
Variations
The best part about the Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet? It’s a total chameleon! Adapt it to what you have on hand, your dietary needs, or whatever flavor adventure you feel like today—this recipe is all about making it your own.
- Swap the Greens: No spinach in the fridge? Try arugula, kale, or even chopped broccoli florets for a heartier bite.
- Try Different Sausage: Experiment with turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausage for new flavors or to fit your dietary preferences.
- Change Up the Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but provolone, gouda, or shaved parmesan all add their delicious twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free penne for an equally satisfying dish.
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet
Step 1: Make the Marinara Sauce
If you’re taking the homemade route (which I highly recommend for extra flavor!), start by heating olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the red onions until translucent—this is when your kitchen starts to smell amazing—then add in the garlic for a quick 30-second sizzle. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce come to a lively simmer, unlocking all those rich tomato flavors. After just a few minutes, stir in the honey, parsley, basil, and oregano; this herbal blend will make your sauce taste like it’s been simmering all day. Don’t forget to season with salt to taste!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is bubbling away, get your pasta going. Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, toss in your penne, and cook until perfectly al dente. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking—then set it aside for skillet action later.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken Sausage
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high and add the chicken sausage, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Let them sizzle and brown for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sausage should be cooked through and golden—it’ll make the whole dish pop with savory flavor.
Step 4: Build the Skillet
With the sausage cooked, pour the marinara sauce over and stir to combine. Next, add heaps of fresh baby spinach, folding it into the sauce until it wilts down (this happens quickly, so don’t wander away). This is the moment when everything starts coming together in delicious harmony!
Step 5: Bake and Finish with Cheese
Toss in your cooked pasta, stir so everything’s lovingly coated with sauce, and sprinkle with a generous blanket of shredded mozzarella. Slide the whole pan into a preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes—until the cheese bubbles and the edges are golden-brown. (Short on time? Just stir in the cheese till it’s gooey and irresistible right on the stove!)
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Scatter some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste, then serve your Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet hot and melty straight from the pan!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet
- Sausage Selection: Opt for high-quality chicken sausages with robust seasoning—smoked, sun-dried tomato, or spicy Italian varieties boost overall depth of flavor.
- Sauce Simmer: Let your marinara simmer long enough for the tomatoes to mellow and the herbs to infuse—taste before adding salt so you don’t overdo it.
- Cheese Topping: For ultra-gooey, golden-brown cheese, add a mix of mozzarella and a little shredded parmesan before baking.
- Baking Shortcut: If you’re pressed for time, skip the oven and stir the cheese directly into the hot pasta for a creamier skillet version that’s ready in minutes.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh pop of color, while a little extra cracked black pepper or some grated parmesan beautifully elevates each serving of Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet. If you love a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes right before serving for that little extra zip!
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread makes the meal feel like a restaurant treat. For an extra veggie boost, a side of roasted broccoli or a simple caprese salad rounds things out beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet right from the hot pan at the center of the table “family-style,” inviting everyone to dig in. Or, spoon it into individual mini skillets or ramekins for a dinner-party-worthy touch. If you’re feeling playful, serve it with colorful pasta or top with a swirl of pesto or balsamic glaze for a wow moment!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully—just scoop any remaining Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days and makes for the best easy lunch or dinner redo the next day!
Freezing
This dish freezes well, especially if you skip the final baking step and freeze before adding the cheese. Let it cool completely, pack in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating with cheese on top.
Reheating
Reheat leftover skillet in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, or zap individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep things luscious and moist.
FAQs
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Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or simply prefer a shortcut, high-quality store-bought marinara is perfect for this Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet. Use about 2½ to 3 cups, and feel free to jazz it up with fresh herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like.
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What kind of chicken sausage works best in this recipe?
Any fully cooked chicken sausage will work, but ones with Italian, sun-dried tomato, or spicy flavors add a fun twist. Experiment with what’s available at your store, or even try a smoked variety for a deeper, savory element.
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Can I make this Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta—most hold up well in skillet recipes like this. Double-check that your sausage is gluten-free too, and you’re good to go.
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How can I add more vegetables or protein?
This dish is a fantastic blank canvas—toss in extra spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes. For more protein, stir in a can of drained white beans or chickpeas along with the sausage for an extra hearty, nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a crave-worthy, nourishing dinner that everyone will love, give this Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet a try. It’s so easy, so delicious, and destined to become a staple at your table. Can’t wait for you to dig in and make it yours!
Print
Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Stovetop
Description
This Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet recipe is a delicious one-pan meal that combines savory chicken sausage, tender pasta, and a flavorful marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
For the marinara sauce (or substitute 2 1/2 to 3 cups store-bought sauce):
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) diced red onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can (795g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1/4 cup (5g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup (5g) chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the pasta:
- 8 ounces (225g) penne pasta
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) chicken sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 to 6 cups (100 to 150g) baby spinach
- 1 1/2 cups (140g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F: Make the marinara sauce by sautéing onions and garlic, adding crushed tomatoes, herbs, and honey. Simmer and set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the sausage and spinach sauce: Cook sausage, add pasta sauce, and wilt spinach in the mixture.
- Bake the pasta: Combine pasta with sauce, top with mozzarella, bake until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Top with parsley: Garnish with parsley, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 412
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 927mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 84mg
