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One-Pan Creamy Tuscan Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet

Close-up of creamy chicken sausage pasta with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes served in a white bowl.

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Make this easy, creamy Tuscan chicken sausage pasta skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. This one-pan meal uses savory chicken sausage and cooks fast, offering sophisticated flavor with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound smoked chicken sausage, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the dry pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and the cooked chicken sausage. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts completely. Remove the skillet from the heat.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
  7. Serve immediately for a comforting pasta dish. This recipe is a great alternative to relying on meal planning services.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
  • If you are interested in structured eating, this recipe works well for general meal preparation, unlike specialized weight loss programs.
  • Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy sauce and savory sausage.

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