If you are craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet balanced and nourishing, you have to try this Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of juicy roasted tomatoes and savory chicken sausage, perfectly mingled with tender pasta, making it a satisfying dinner for any night of the week. This dish not only pleases the taste buds but also offers a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without any of the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this pasta comes from a handful of simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each one enhances the dish uniquely, from the sweetness of roasted tomatoes to the hearty texture of chicken sausage, creating a harmony of tastes that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delightful in your mouth.
- Little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.): These burst with natural sweetness and roast beautifully to create a rich, saucy base.
- Chicken sausages: Opt for lean, quality chicken sausage for that perfect savory bite without excess fat.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps everything roast to perfection.
- Garlic powder: Brings a mellow, comforting garlic essence without overpowering the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that ties together all the flavors seamlessly.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for balancing and elevating every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Pasta (I suggest pappardelle): Wide ribbons that hold onto the sauce beautifully, making each bite luxurious.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that’s a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep the oven and ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the middle to ensure even roasting. This high heat helps caramelize the tomatoes and sausage for the richest flavor.
Step 2: Combine and roast the tomatoes and sausage
In a baking dish, toss together your tomatoes, bite-sized sausage pieces (whether cut or crumbled from casings), olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Make sure every piece is lightly coated in seasoning. Pop it into the oven and roast for 20 minutes. This step is where the magic begins — the tomatoes soften and burst, creating a juicy, flavorful sauce with the savory sausage blending in perfectly.
Step 3: Stir and continue roasting
After 20 minutes, pull out your dish and give everything a good stir to mix those roasted juices and sausage pieces evenly. Return it to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on it to get just the right amount of caramelization without burning. The sauce deepens in flavor, thickening up beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the pasta al dente
While your sauce is finishing up, boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Al dente pasta will add the perfect bite and texture against the softness of the sauce. Drain the pasta well to avoid watering down the sauce.
Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce, then serve
Toss the cooked pasta right into the roasting dish, mixing it well so every strand or ribbon gets coated in that rich tomato and sausage sauce. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a pinch more salt and pepper if needed. This is comfort food done right — wholesome, hearty, and full of layers of flavor.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkling of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. These little touches bring brightness and complexity to the plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness with a refreshing tang. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread is also a wonderful companion to mop up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider twirling portions into elegant nests on each plate, then topping with a parmesan crisp for a bit of crunch. Mason jars or bento-style dishes are also fun for packed lunches or casual meals. The vibrant roasted tomato sauce makes presentation inviting and appetizing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors actually deepen over time, so leftovers can be even better.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta dish as well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh when possible.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them until warm. Adding a splash of water or broth helps loosen the sauce and maintain a nice consistency. Avoid overheating to preserve the sausage’s juiciness and the pasta’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps this dish light and healthy, you can swap in turkey sausage or even a flavorful pork sausage depending on your preference. Just be mindful of seasoning levels as some sausages are saltier or spicier than others.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Pappardelle is my favorite because its wide ribbons hold the sauce beautifully, but you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti based on what you have on hand. The key is to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free or can it be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply substitute your regular pasta with a gluten-free variety. The roasting process and flavors remain just as delicious, making this a versatile recipe for dietary preferences.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can roast the tomato and sausage sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it separately from the pasta for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and freshly cook the pasta for the best texture and flavor combination.
How spicy is this chicken sausage pasta?
The spice level depends on the chicken sausage you choose. Most chicken sausages have mild to moderate seasoning, but if you want to add heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while roasting or as a garnish. This way, you control the spice to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals because it’s straightforward, satisfying, and packed with wholesome flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding friends, this dish promises warmth and comfort with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create something so tasty and nourishing!
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Healthy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and healthy chicken sausage pasta dish featuring roasted little tomatoes, seasoned chicken sausage, and al dente pappardelle pasta, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese. This recipe combines the richness of roasted tomatoes and savory sausage with simple yet aromatic seasonings, delivering a satisfying and wholesome meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Roasted Tomato and Sausage Mixture
- 1 (10 ounce) package little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.)
- 13 ounces uncooked chicken sausages, cut into small bite-size pieces or crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as pappardelle)
To Serve
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, to taste
- Extra salt & pepper, if desired
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even roasting.
- Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In a baking dish, add the little tomatoes, chicken sausage pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt & pepper. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the seasonings and oil.
- Roast the Mixture: Place the dish in the oven and roast for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the dish and stir the contents well to redistribute the ingredients.
- Continue Roasting Until Done: Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through, the tomatoes are soft and lightly browned. Keep a close eye near the end to prevent burning.
- Cook the Pasta: While the roasting finishes, bring a salted pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the drained pasta with the roasted tomato and sausage sauce. Serve immediately with freshly grated parmesan cheese and additional salt and pepper if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage for another lean protein option.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
- You can customize the seasoning by adding red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top just before serving for added freshness.
