Description
This Sausage Kale Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together savory sausage, vibrant kale, and al dente pasta. The combination of rich sausage and the earthy taste of kale, tossed with pasta and a simple garlic-infused sauce, creates a satisfying meal. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick to make and incredibly comforting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Kale:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the chopped kale and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until wilted and tender. If the pan becomes too dry, add a splash of broth to help the kale cook.
- Combine the Pasta and Sausage:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the kale. Add the cooked pasta, chicken or vegetable broth, and heavy cream (if using). Stir to combine, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together and serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like roasted red peppers or mushrooms to the dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian