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Delicious Sausage Kale Pasta Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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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