Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta
Try this Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 2.0068 g
- Cholesterol 22 mg
- Fat 7.1675 g
- Fiber 0.0629999971389771 g
- Protein 9.8058 g
- Saturated Fat 4.32792 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (264g)
- Sodium 407.320190972222 mg
- Sugar 1.94380000286102 g
- Trans Fat 0.444780000000001 g
- Calories 112 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sausage and brown, breaking it up as it cooks, but avoid making it too crumbly.
- Scoop sausage onto a plate and set aside.
- Drop pasta into salted, boiling water and cook until just under al dente (it will continue cooking in the skillet).
- DO NOT drain the pasta water.
- Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in the skillet. Add brussels sprouts, red chili pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Saute until sprouts are tender (3-4 minutes).
- Add garlic and saute for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Using tongs, transfer spaghetti to the skillet. Add parmesan cheese and cooked sausage.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and add enough pasta water to melt the cheese and coat the pasta.
- Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Serve.
A Weeknight Wonder: Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and endless to-do lists, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of quick, flavorful recipes that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition. This Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta dish is a perfect example. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and is packed with satisfying flavors and textures.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The slightly sweet Italian sausage provides a hearty base, while the brussels sprouts add a welcome bitterness that balances the richness of the parmesan cheese. The pasta, cooked perfectly al dente, soaks up all the delicious flavors from the pan, creating a creamy, irresistible sauce. I often use gluten-free pasta, but any type will work perfectly. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, but feel free to adjust the amount to your preference. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice at the very end for a vibrant lift, enhancing the flavors even more.
What makes this dish particularly special is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the sausage for chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Similarly, feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli, kale, or spinach would all be delicious additions. The parmesan cheese is non-negotiable in my book, but a sprinkle of pecorino romano could also add an interesting twist. The key is to keep the cooking process straightforward, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The result is a dish that's both sophisticated and satisfying, a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to what I have on hand. Sometimes I'll throw in some sauteed mushrooms or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor. Other times, depending on the season, I might use different types of sausage, such as spicy chorizo or mild Italian chicken sausage. The possibilities are endless!
This isn't just a quick dinner; it's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and a few well-chosen ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that nourishes your body and soul. And, let's be honest, the ease of cleanup is an added bonus in the midst of a busy week. So, the next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and healthy dinner, give this Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Parmesan Pasta recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the pan while sautéing the brussels sprouts.
- Make it spicier: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add some greens: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale at the end of cooking.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese at the end.
- Customize the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pecorino romano or asiago.
This recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver, consistently delivering a delicious and satisfying meal without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy, flavorful food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy!
