SAUSAGE AND VEGETABLE PASTA
There’s something so satisfying about a meal that comes together effortlessly but feels like a special treat. This pasta recipe has become one of my go-to dinners for those busy fall evenings when I want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort in every bite.
I love how this recipe balances indulgence and nourishment that’s perfect for cozy nights at home or for serving to friends when you want to impress without too much fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how satisfying this simple yet flavorful dish can be!
Ingredients
- Ground chicken or turkey
- Broccoli crowns
- Spinach
- Orecchiette pasta
- Extra Virgin Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Sea Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Fennel seed
Sausage & Vegetable Pasta
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Method: Stovetop, Oven
This bold and flavorful bowl combines tender hot honey chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings in one dish. Quick, wholesome, and delicious—perfect for a busy weeknight or a satisfying weekend meal!
This recipe is also meal prep friendly!
What You Will Need
Glass cutting board
Paring Knife
Large Skillet
Baking sheet
Mixing Bowl
Medium Saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground chicken or turkey
- 2 broccoli crowns
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 lb orecchiette pasta
- 10 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 12 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 4 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fennel seed
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven at 425 °F. Chop the broccoli crowns. Toss the broccoli crowns with 4 tbsp of olive oil and 4 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the broccoli onto a baking sheet. Cook the broccoli for 25 minutes.
2. Boil water and cook the orecchiette pasta according to the directions.
3. Create your homemade sausage seasoning mix of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika, garlic powder, and fennel seed.
4. Add 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken or turkey. Stir until the ground chicken or turkey is browned.
5. Add the pasta, remaining olive oil and parmesan cheese, and uncooked spinach to a mixing bowl.
6. Gather your favorite meal prep containers. Begin assembling your meal. First evenly allocate the ingredients from the mixing bowl into the 8 containers, Then evenly allocate the seasoned ground chicken or turkey, and broccoli.
The Power of Ingredients
Ground Chicken or Turkey
I always keep ground turkey or chicken on hand for quick, high-protein meals. It’s a fantastic lean protein source that keeps you full and helps build muscle, plus it’s packed with B vitamins for energy and brain health.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of my favorite veggies because it’s packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support immune health, digestion, and even detoxification. It’s also rich in sulforaphane, a powerful compound known to reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Spinach
This leafy green is a true nutritional MVP! Spinach is high in iron, vitamin K, and folate, all of which support energy levels, bone health, and overall well-being. I love adding it to pasta dishes or sautéing it in olive oil for an easy nutrient boost.
Pasta
While pasta sometimes gets a bad reputation, when paired with nutrient-dense ingredients, it can be a delicious and balanced part of any meal.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
There’s a reason EVOO is a staple in Mediterranean diets! It’s full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation and support brain health. Drizzling it over roasted veggies or using it in dressings instantly elevates any dish.
Parmesan Cheese
A little parmesan goes a long way! This aged cheese is packed with calcium and protein while adding a rich, nutty flavor to dishes. Plus, since it’s naturally low in lactose, it’s often easier to digest than other dairy products.
Sea Salt
Good quality sea salt contains trace minerals like magnesium and potassium that help with hydration and electrolyte balance. A little sprinkle enhances flavors beautifully—just be mindful of overdoing it!
Black Pepper
Black pepper isn’t just for seasoning—it actually helps your body absorb nutrients more effectively, especially curcumin from turmeric. Plus, its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a small but mighty addition to meals.
Red Pepper Flakes
If you love a little heat, red pepper flakes are a great way to add a kick to your meals. They contain capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and support digestion.
Paprika
Paprika isn’t just for color—it’s actually rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin A, which supports immune health and glowing skin. Whether smoked or sweet, it adds a subtle depth of flavor to dishes.
Garlic Powder
I love fresh garlic, but garlic powder is a lifesaver when I need a shortcut! It still offers many of the same health benefits, including immune support, heart health, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Fennel Seed
Fennel seed is one of my favorite underrated spices. Its slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor makes it perfect for seasoning meats, pasta dishes, or even homemade sausage blends. It’s also fantastic for digestion, helping to reduce bloating and support gut health.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 650mg
Nutritional Highlights
High protein – Lean ground chicken/turkey provide strong protein content.
Balanced carbs – Orecchiette pasta is the main source of carbohydrates.
Healthy fats – Mostly from olive oil and Parmesan.
Moderate sodium – Can be adjusted based on seasoning preferences.
Good fiber – Thanks to broccoli and spinach.
Recipe Notes
There are several variations of this recipe.
Feel free to use store bought sausage seasoning packets.
You can make this low carb by removing the pasta and replacing with zucchini noodles.
I have also tried different variations of vegetables like onions or peas.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
I love quick but flavorful and nutrient dense meals!
Hi there, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! I’m Kaitlyn, and I am so excited to have you here. The Live Lueur blog is fueled by my personal journey toward healing my thyroid by living a healthier, more balanced life, and to inspire you one step at a time, through small, sustainable changes.
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