Prepare to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that combines the robust flavors of Italian chicken sausage, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the pickiest eaters. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dinner that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious, proving that gourmet cooking can be simple and quick!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the Brussels sprouts and chicken sausage. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausages and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the sausages. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until Brussels sprouts are caramelized and tender.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with sausages and Brussels sprouts. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as required.
- Serve hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients stick together.
- Achieve Caramelization: For the Brussels sprouts, ensure your skillet is hot enough to create a golden-brown exterior. This develops rich, nutty flavors.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook sausages and Brussels sprouts in a single layer to ensure proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Garlic Timing is Key: Add minced garlic towards the end of cooking to prevent burning, which can make it bitter.
- Fresh Parmesan Makes a Difference: Grate Parmesan cheese directly onto the dish for maximum flavor and a luxurious finish.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to swap chicken sausage with turkey sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg
