This delicious pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans recipe is a perfect blend of Italian cuisine with a healthy twist. The hearty beans and savory sausage make for a filling meal, while the escarole adds a refreshing crunch. The grated parmesan and red pepper flakes give it the final touch of indulgence.
Photos of Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans Recipe
Escarole and cannellini beans may not be the most common ingredients in your pantry. Escarole is a type of endive with a slightly bitter taste, commonly used in Italian cuisine. You can find it in the produce section of most supermarkets. Cannellini beans are large white beans with a mild flavor and creamy texture, often used in soups and stews. They are usually available canned in the beans aisle.
Ingredients for Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
Pasta: A staple in Italian cuisine, a great source of carbohydrates and energy.
Olive oil: Used for cooking and gives a distinct flavor.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Provides a robust flavor.
Italian chicken sausage: Leaner than pork sausage and full of flavor.
Chicken broth: Adds extra flavor to the dish.
Cannellini beans: Provides a creamy texture and protein.
Escarole: Offers a crunchy texture and slightly bitter taste.
Parmesan: Gives a salty, umami kick.
Red pepper: Adds a hint of heat.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.
One reader, Gradey Kish says:
This pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and satisfying. The combination of the sausage, beans, and pasta creates a hearty and delicious meal. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. I highly recommend trying it!
Techniques Required
How to cook pasta al dente: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until it is firm to the bite.
How to wilt escarole: Add the escarole to the skillet and stir and cook for about 4 minutes or until it is wilted.
How to adjust salt and pepper: Taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if needed to achieve the desired flavor.
How to toss the pasta: Gently mix the ingredients together to ensure the pasta, sausage, and beans are evenly distributed.
How To Make Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
A bowl of garlicky Italian chicken sausage pasta with white cannellini beans, crushed red pepper, and grated cheese – no words to describe but yum!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 10ozpasta,wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1tspolive oil
- 1medium onion,chopped
- 4garlic cloves,chopped
- 12ozuncooked Italian chicken sausage,removed from casing, Al Fresco
- ½cupfat-free chicken broth,or low sodium
- 1cupcannellini beans,drained and rinsed, such as Eden
- 8cupsescarole rinsed and torn into bite sized pieces),(1 medium head), rinsed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- ¼cupgrated parmesan,or romano cheese
- ¼tspcrushed red pepper,or to taste, optional
- salt and fresh pepper,to taste
Instructions
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Rinse escarole and tear into bite sized pieces.
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Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente in a large pot of salted water. Reserve ½ cup of water before draining.
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While pasta water boils, heat a large non-stick skillet on medium heat.
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Add olive oil; when hot add onions, garlic, salt, and pepper for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft.
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Add sausage, breaking up with a wooden spoon then cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until golden. Set aside in a dish.
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Add chicken broth and beans to the skillet.
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Add the escarole; stir and cook for about 4 minutes or until wilted.
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Gently stir in sausage, pasta, red pepper flakes, ½ cup of the reserved water or more if needed, and grated Parmesan. Adjust salt and pepper if needed and toss well; transfer to a large serving bowl. Enjoy with some extra cheese on the side.
Nutrition
- Calories: 485.21kcal
- Fat: 12.96g
- Saturated Fat: 3.63g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.61g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.82g
- Carbohydrates: 65.83g
- Fiber: 11.18g
- Sugar: 3.45g
- Protein: 27.05g
- Cholesterol: 59.24mg
- Sodium: 711.33mg
- Calcium: 241.55mg
- Potassium: 1152.61mg
- Iron: 5.35mg
- Vitamin A: 16.03µg
- Vitamin C: 5.44mg
Technique Tip for Perfectly Cooking Pasta With Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
When cooking the Italian chicken sausage, it's important to break it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. This not only ensures that the sausage cooks evenly, but it also allows the flavors to distribute more effectively throughout the dish. Additionally, when adding the escarole, make sure to stir it gently into the mixture to maintain its structure and prevent it from becoming too wilted. This will give your dish a nice texture contrast. Lastly, don't forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pasta With Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare what you can in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as sauces or grains, and freeze them for future use to save time on busy days.
Efficient tools: Invest in time-saving kitchen gadgets like a food processor, immersion blender, or slow cooker to simplify meal preparation.
Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand, reducing last-minute trips to the store.
Substitute Ingredients For Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans Recipe
pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to pasta that can add a lighter and healthier twist to the dish.
italian chicken sausage - Substitute with vegetarian Italian sausage: This substitution provides a meat-free alternative while still maintaining the Italian sausage flavor and texture.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for cannellini beans.
escarole - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for escarole, providing a hearty and nutritious green component to the dish.
How to Beautifully Present Pasta With Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
Elevate the plating: Arrange the pasta in a circular motion on the plate, ensuring the sausage and beans are evenly distributed. This creates a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley over the pasta to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a delicate sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs over the pasta to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Present the pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans in elegant, minimalist-style bowls or plates to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Emphasize the aroma: Just before serving, drizzle a hint of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the dish to enhance the aroma and add a luxurious touch to the presentation.
Consider the balance of colors: Ensure the dish is visually balanced by incorporating vibrant greens from the escarole, the earthy tones of the sausage and beans, and the creamy white of the parmesan.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few whole cannellini beans and a slice of the Italian chicken sausage on top of the pasta to showcase the key components of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe
- Large pot: A large, deep pot is essential for boiling pasta and preparing the dish.
- Non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing the onions, garlic, and sausage without the ingredients sticking to the pan.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for breaking up the sausage and stirring the ingredients while cooking.
- Colander: A colander is necessary for draining the cooked pasta before adding it to the dish.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Pasta With Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
- To store leftover pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Frozen pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or water to help reconstitute the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- If you plan to freeze the pasta, consider slightly undercooking it (al dente) during the initial preparation. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft or mushy when reheated.
- When reheating frozen pasta, you may need to adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese to taste, as flavors can sometimes diminish during freezing and thawing.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Stovetop method: heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Add the leftover pasta, chicken sausage, and beans to the skillet. Stir gently until the mixture is heated through and the liquid has been absorbed. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more broth or water as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Microwave method: place the leftover pasta, chicken sausage, and beans in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the mixture is heated through. If needed, add more time in 30-second increments until the desired temperature is reached.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta, chicken sausage, and beans to an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
Regardless of the reheating method, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the flavors after reheating. If the pasta seems dry, you can also drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top before serving.
Random Fact About Pasta With Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans
Italian chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, as it contains less fat and calories while still providing a delicious flavor to the dish.
Is This Pasta Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pasta, chicken sausage, and cannellini beans, are affordable and readily available. The dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a great option for feeding a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly meal choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, flavor, and nutritional value.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans recipe is a healthier twist on a classic comfort food. Here's why:
- Using whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta increases the fiber content and provides more nutrients.
- Italian chicken sausage is a leaner protein option compared to traditional pork sausage, reducing the overall fat content of the dish.
- Cannellini beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Escarole is a nutrient-dense leafy green that adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish.
- The recipe uses a minimal amount of olive oil, which is a healthy fat, and relies on the flavors of the ingredients to create a delicious meal.
While this recipe is already quite healthy, there are a few ways to make it even more nutritious:
- Opt for a whole grain or legume-based pasta, such as chickpea or lentil pasta, to increase the protein and fiber content even further.
- Reduce the amount of sausage used and increase the number of beans to create a more plant-forward dish.
- Add additional vegetables, such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, to boost the nutrient content and add more texture and flavor to the dish.
- Use a low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the recipe.
- Experiment with different leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, to vary the nutrients and flavors in the dish.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Dish
This pasta with Italian chicken sausage and beans recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of Italian chicken sausage adds a savory and slightly spicy element, while the cannellini beans provide a creamy and hearty addition. The addition of escarole brings a fresh and slightly bitter note, balancing the dish perfectly. The use of garlic and onions adds depth of flavor, and the grated parmesan provides a rich and nutty finish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of Italian flavors and is sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
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Why trust this Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage and Beans Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of Italian chicken sausage and cannellini beans, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The addition of escarole provides a fresh and nutritious element, while the use of grated parmesan and crushed red pepper adds depth and complexity to the flavors. With the careful balance of ingredients and the step-by-step instructions, this recipe promises to deliver a delicious and wholesome meal that will surely impress your taste buds.
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