Delicious Sausage Kale Pasta Recipe

The aroma of sizzling sausages fills the kitchen while vibrant greens dance in the pot. This is not just any dinner; it’s a heartwarming bowl of sausage kale pasta that promises to wrap you in warmth and flavor. The moment you take that first bite, you’ll feel as if you’re being hugged by your favorite sweater on a chilly evening.

Close your eyes and imagine a plate piled high with perfectly cooked pasta, nestled among juicy sausage chunks and tender kale. Each mouthful brings together the savory notes of garlic and spices, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). Trust me; this dish isn’t just for weeknights but also for impressing guests at your next gathering.

I once made this dish during a family gathering; let’s just say my cousin’s eyes lit up like they had just seen the last slice of pizza.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I use penne or fusilli for their excellent sauce-holding abilities.
• Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy based on your preference; both bring amazing flavor.
• Kale: Fresh kale adds nutrition and texture; make sure to wash and chop it well.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish’s aroma; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for sautéing ingredients to perfection.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness and depth; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but highly recommended if you want to spice things up!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and crumble in the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Kale: Toss in minced garlic when sausages are nearly done. Sauté until fragrant, then add chopped kale. Cook until wilted—approximately 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta (reserve some cooking water), then add directly into the skillet with sausage and kale mixture. If needed, pour in a little reserved water for better consistency.

Season & Serve: Sprinkle red pepper flakes (if using) along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined—serve hot with grated Parmesan on top!

Now that you’ve made this delicious sausage kale pasta, gather around the table because nothing says “family time” like sharing good food—and maybe some laughs about Uncle Joe’s failed attempts at cooking! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a large skillet, then add kale until wilted. Cook pasta separately and combine everything with the sauce for a harmonious flavor blend.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out kale for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes for a kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Creating this Sausage Kale Pasta brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and second helpings. Everyone loved it, and I discovered my knack for cooking!

FAQ

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Can I freeze Sausage Kale Pasta?

Yes, freeze it in portions; defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold sauce well and complement the ingredients nicely.

Delicious Sausage Kale Pasta Recipe

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This hearty and flavorful Sausage Kale Pasta is a comforting meal that combines savory Italian sausage with tender kale, all tossed in a rich garlic and olive oil sauce. The pasta soaks up the delicious flavors, making each bite satisfying and delicious. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, greens, and carbs for a wholesome meal everyone will love.

• Author: Mason Recipes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 2 cups kale, chopped (remove tough stems)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
• Brown the Sausage:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess fat if needed.
• Add the Garlic and Kale:
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted and tender.
• Make the Sauce:
  • Pour in the chicken broth (and heavy cream, if using). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Combine Pasta and Sauce:
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Serve:
  • Serve the sausage kale pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with extra red pepper flakes or herbs if desired.

Notes

• Make it Creamier: For a creamier version, add more heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
• Sausage Options: Use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage if you prefer a lighter or meat-free version.
• Add-ins: You can also add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
• One-Pot Version: If you prefer fewer dishes, cook the pasta in the same pan after sautéing the sausage, then add the broth and kale to the pan with the pasta.

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