Delicious Sausage, Pasta & Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that brings together hearty sausage, al dente pasta, and the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts in perfect harmony? This Sausage, Pasta, and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a culinary delight that tantalizes your taste buds with its rich flavors and delightful textures. The savory notes of the sausage meld beautifully with the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, while the pasta acts as a comforting base that brings it all together.

This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals when you’re craving something both satisfying and nutritious. Picture this: a warm bowl of pasta mixed with crisped Brussels sprouts and juicy sausage, all topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It promises an amazing flavor experience that will leave you eager for seconds. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Key Ingredients For Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts

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

• Italian Sausage: Choose either sweet or spicy Italian sausage for deep flavor; casings should be removed before cooking.
• Pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, as they hold onto the sauce better.
• Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts; trim and halve them for even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic depth; chop them finely for maximum flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the dish’s creaminess; avoid pre-grated varieties.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté the sausage and vegetables for added richness.

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

Instructions For Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients: remove the casings from the Italian sausage and chop garlic finely. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Set everything aside to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Second Step : Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, crumble in the sausage and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Third Step : Sauté Brussels Sprouts

Once the sausage is cooked through, add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Sauté them alongside the sausage for another 5-6 minutes until they become slightly caramelized and tender.

Fourth Step : Add Garlic

Stir in chopped garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Fifth Step : Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, boil salted water in a separate pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sixth Step : Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet with sausage and Brussels sprouts. If needed, pour in some reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Toss everything together over low heat.

Transfer to plates or bowls and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate flavor significantly; always choose high-quality produce when possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to mix sweet and spicy sausages if you want more complexity in flavor; it’s all about personal preference!
• Add Toasted Nuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the delicious Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts dish, start by cooking the pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water and add your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, in a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausages and cook until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausages and set them aside.

Next, add chopped Brussels sprouts to the same skillet. Sauté them until they become tender and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Return the sausages to the skillet and mix everything well. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sausage and Brussels sprouts. Toss everything together, adding salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley or basil on top enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.
• Pair with a Light Salad: A simple green salad balances the richness of the pasta.

Nutritional Information

This Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts recipe offers a satisfying meal full of essential nutrients. The combination of protein from the sausage and fiber from Brussels sprouts makes it a wholesome choice. Each serving provides an excellent balance of carbohydrates and fats while delivering vitamins like C and K from the vegetables.

You can make this dish even healthier by using whole grain pasta or lean turkey sausage. These substitutions can reduce calories while maintaining great taste.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts meal, store them properly to enjoy later. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply microwave until heated through or rewarm on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.

For longer storage options, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

FAQs

What type of sausage works best in this recipe?

When choosing sausage for your Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts dish, consider Italian sausage for its robust flavor. You can opt for mild or spicy based on your preference. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well without compromising taste.

Can I use different vegetables instead of Brussels sprouts?

Absolutely! While Brussels sprouts add a unique flavor profile to this dish, you can substitute them with other vegetables like broccoli or kale. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on how quickly those vegetables cook.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just be sure to store components separately if you want to maintain optimal texture.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of this Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts dish, replace sausage with plant-based alternatives such as tempeh or tofu seasoned with spices for flavor. Additionally, ensure that your pasta is egg-free if you’re looking for a completely vegan option.