Name: Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh brussels sprouts; 3 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp freshly-ground black pepper; 1 lb orecchiette; 4 chicken sausage links; 5 cloves garlic; ⅓ cup Pesto; parmesan cheese

A delicious pasta dish that combines the rich and creamy flavors of pesto with the robust taste of roasted brussels sprouts and juicy chicken sausages. This easy-to-cook meal is perfect for a family dinner or a get-together with friends.

Photos of Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

All the ingredients listed are commonly found in grocery stores. However, pay special attention to the chicken sausage as they come in various flavors and types. Choose the one that suits your taste preference. Also, for the pesto, you can either make it at home or buy the ready-made version from the supermarket.

Ingredients for Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts: These provide a delightful crunch and a slight bitterness that balances the rich flavors of the dish.

Olive oil: Used for roasting the sprouts and sauteing the sausage, it adds a subtle fruity flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a slight heat to the dish.

Orecchiette: This type of pasta's round, concave shape is perfect for holding the pesto sauce.

Chicken sausage links: Provides a hearty, meaty element to the dish.

Garlic: Adds a punch of robust flavor.

Pesto: This sauce brings a creamy, herby, and nutty flavor.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finishing touch.

One reader, Hubert Champion says:

This pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the roasted brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch. The pesto ties everything together beautifully. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Hubert Champion

Techniques Required

How to roast brussels sprouts: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, mix together brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the brussels sprouts on a prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring once, until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

How to cook chicken sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until nearly browned. Add garlic and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sausage is browned.

How to cook orecchiette pasta: Cook the pasta in generously salted boiling water until al dente according to the package directions. Drain the water, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.

How to toss pasta with pesto: Toss together the cooked pasta, pesto, cooked sausage and garlic, and roasted brussels sprouts. Add some of the reserved pasta water if needed for extra moisture.

How to serve: Serve the pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts warm, and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

This pesto pasta is made lighter by using chicken sausage and the addition of healthy and flavorful roasted Brussels sprouts.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbfresh brussels sprouts,ends trimmed and any yellowed/browned outer leaves removed, then sliced in half
3tbspolive oil,divided
½tspkosher salt
½tspfreshly-ground black pepper
1lborecchiette,or any pasta
4chicken sausage links
5clovesgarlic,peeled and thinly sliced
⅓cupPesto
Parmesan cheese,for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, mix together brussels sprouts, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper. Gently stir until well-combined.
Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then spread the brussels sprouts on it evenly. Roast for about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once partway through, or until they are crispy on the outside and cooked on the inside. Remove from oven and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until nearly-browned. Add the garlic, and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sausage is browned.
Cook the pasta in generously-salted boiling water until al dente according to the package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain the water (reserving ¼ cup pasta water), and then toss together the pasta, pesto, cooked sausage and garlic, and brussels sprouts. Add in some of the reserved pasta water if needed for extra moisture.
Serve warm, and sprinkle with freshly-grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 494.14kcal
Fat: 17.75g
Saturated Fat: 2.99g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.85g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.42g
Carbohydrates: 66.21g
Fiber: 5.78g
Sugar: 3.87g
Protein: 18.01g
Cholesterol: 29.99mg
Sodium: 478.58mg
Calcium: 100.75mg
Potassium: 536.58mg
Iron: 2.88mg
Vitamin A: 28.79µg
Vitamin C: 65.04mg

Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Pesto Pasta

When roasting your brussels sprouts, make sure to cut them in half. This will allow them to cook evenly and achieve a nice caramelization on the cut side. Additionally, tossing them in olive oil before roasting will help them get crispy. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices before they go into the oven.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and make the pesto in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the brussels sprouts are roasting, cook the pasta and sausage simultaneously to save time.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked chicken sausage to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the sausage, garlic, and pasta together for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Substitute Ingredients For Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccolini: Broccolini has a similar texture and flavor to brussels sprouts, and it will work well in this recipe.
orecchiette - Substitute with penne: Penne is a great substitute for orecchiette as it holds sauces well and has a similar bite.
chicken sausage - Substitute with Italian sausage: Italian sausage has a robust flavor and will add a delicious depth to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, complementing the dish well.
pesto - Substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto: Sun-dried tomato pesto will add a unique twist with its rich, tangy flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan and will work well as a substitute.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Presentation

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Place the orecchiette in the center of the plate and carefully position the roasted brussels sprouts around it. This will create a beautiful and inviting presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Add a pop of color to the dish by garnishing with a drizzle of vibrant pesto. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of flavor to the overall presentation.
Emphasize texture: Highlight the different textures in the dish by ensuring that the brussels sprouts are crispy and the orecchiette is cooked to perfection. This will provide a delightful sensory experience for the diners.
Balance the elements: Pay attention to the balance of flavors and ingredients on the plate. Ensure that each component, including the chicken sausage, is proportionally represented, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Attention to detail: Sprinkle freshly-grated parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving. This final touch adds a touch of sophistication and depth of flavor to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pesto Pasta

Food processor: A food processor is used to finely chop, blend, or puree ingredients. It's great for making pesto or finely chopping nuts for the pesto pasta recipe.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is a flat, metal pan used for baking in the oven. It's perfect for roasting the brussels sprouts in the pesto pasta recipe.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients. It's essential for cooking the chicken sausage and garlic in the pesto pasta recipe.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to line baking sheets or wrap food for cooking. It helps to prevent food from sticking and makes for easy cleanup when roasting the brussels sprouts.
Colander: A colander is a bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used for draining liquids from food, such as pasta. It's essential for draining the cooked orecchiette in the pesto pasta recipe.

How To Store / Freeze Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

To store leftover pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta and heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Stir well to combine and add more pesto if needed to refresh the flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta dish for up to 2-3 months. To do this, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
To thaw frozen pesto pasta, place the container in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours until fully thawed. Reheat the pasta as mentioned above, adding a bit of liquid to help revive the texture and prevent dryness.
It's important to note that the roasted brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispiness after being stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To help restore their texture, you can reheat the thawed pasta in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until warmed through and the brussels sprouts become slightly crispy again.
If you plan to freeze the pasta dish, it's best to undercook the orecchiette slightly (aim for very al dente) before combining it with the other ingredients. This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft and mushy when reheated after thawing.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dish is heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Transfer the leftover pesto pasta to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta to help maintain its moisture. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters and to create steam, which will help keep the pasta moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pasta is heated to your liking.
If you prefer a crispy texture for your roasted brussels sprouts, reheat them separately in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the brussels sprouts and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until they are crispy and heated through. Toss the reheated brussels sprouts with the pesto pasta and chicken sausage before serving.
For a stovetop reheating method, place the leftover pesto pasta in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent the pasta from sticking and to help maintain its moisture. Stir the pasta frequently until it is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the roasted brussels sprouts and chicken sausage to the pan and continue to stir until all components are heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your roasted brussels sprouts and chicken sausage. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the brussels sprouts and chicken sausage in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes or until they are crispy and heated through. Reheat the pesto pasta separately using one of the methods mentioned above, then combine all components before serving.

Random Fact about Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They are also known for their cancer-fighting properties and can be a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, including brussels sprouts, chicken sausage, and orecchiette, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $20. With its balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and carbs, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 rating for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts Healthy?

This pesto pasta with chicken sausage and roasted brussels sprouts recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The brussels sprouts provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the chicken sausage offers lean protein. The whole grain orecchiette pasta is a healthier alternative to refined pasta, and the pesto sauce adds healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. However, the dish could be high in sodium due to the salt, cheese, and potentially high-sodium sausage.

To make this recipe even healthier:

Choose low-sodium chicken sausage to reduce the overall sodium content
Use a smaller amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content
Increase the proportion of brussels sprouts to pasta for added fiber and nutrients
Prepare a homemade pesto sauce with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts to control the ingredients and sodium content
Consider adding other colorful vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to increase the dish's nutrient density
Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for a higher fiber content and slower release of carbohydrates

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Pesto Pasta Recipe

The combination of savory chicken sausage, roasted brussels sprouts, and flavorful pesto creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures in this recipe. The roasted brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch, while the pesto infuses the dish with a burst of herbal freshness. The orecchiette pasta provides a perfect canvas for the dish, allowing the flavors to shine through. The addition of garlic and parmesan cheese further enhances the overall depth of the dish. This recipe is a wonderful balance of hearty and fresh elements, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.

Enhance Your Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Sourdough garlic bread with a balsamic glaze drizzle

Mixed Green Salad: Arugula and spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan

Fruit Salad: Tropical fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing and toasted coconut flakes

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pesto Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and savory risotto is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy texture of the risotto.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This sweet and savory salmon dish is a crowd-pleaser. The honey garlic glaze adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the tender and flaky salmon fillets.

Caprese Stuffed Chicken: This elegant and flavorful dish features juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It's a perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinner.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with these classic bruschetta appetizers. Toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze, creating a refreshing and satisfying start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a buttery oat crumble in this classic apple crisp dessert. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Why trust this Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. The brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and crispiness. The savory chicken sausage adds a hearty and flavorful element, complemented by the aromatic garlic and vibrant pesto. The orecchiette pasta provides a comforting base, while the addition of parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty finish. Trust in the quality and balance of these ingredients to create a memorable and delicious dining experience.

If you want to share your thoughts on this delicious Pesto Pasta with Chicken Sausage & Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe, head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using meatless sausage or omitting the sausage altogether. The pesto, roasted brussels sprouts, and pasta are delicious on their own.

How can I make the dish more spicy?

If you want to add some heat to the dish, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes over the finished dish or add a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking the sausage. You can also use a spicy pesto or add some chopped fresh chili peppers.

Can I prepare the brussels sprouts ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve the dish, simply reheat the brussels sprouts in the oven or microwave before tossing them with the pasta and sausage.

How long will the leftovers last?

The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to reheat them thoroughly before enjoying the dish again.