Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta Meal Prep
Looking for a delicious and nutrient-packed meal that you can prepare in advance? Look no further than Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta! This colorful, hearty dish combines protein-rich chicken sausage with a variety of fresh vegetables and pasta, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing you to whip up several meals at once!
Why make this recipe?
This Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta Meal Prep is not only tasty but also incredibly healthy. It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals from the veggies while remaining satisfying thanks to the chicken sausage and pasta. Furthermore, meal prepping saves time during your busy week, allowing you to enjoy home-cooked meals without the hassle of cooking every day.
How to prepare Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta
Ingredients:
- 🍝 Penne pasta
- 🌭 Chicken sausage (sliced)
- 🥒 Zucchini
- 🥕 Carrots
- 🌼 Yellow squash
- 🌶️ Bell peppers
- 🫒 Olive oil
- 🌿 Italian seasoning
- 🧂 Salt
- 🧂 Pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of water and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini, carrots, yellow squash, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the sausage: Stir in the sliced chicken sausage and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to heat through.
- Mix in the pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated.
- Serve or store: Serve immediately or divide into meal prep containers for the week ahead.
How to serve Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta
This Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta can be enjoyed hot or cold. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor! It goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to store Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta
Store the Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, making sure to put it in freezer-safe containers.
Tips for preparing Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta
- Choose your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand! Broccoli, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes can be great additions.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, not just penne.
- To make it a bit creamier, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the pasta before serving.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables for an extra kick.
- Whole Grain Option: Switch out standard pasta for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
FAQs
1. Can I use raw chicken sausage?
Yes, you can use raw chicken sausage, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the vegetables.
2. What can I substitute for penne pasta?
Any pasta shape works well, such as rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. How do I reheat my meal prep?
You can reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to help it heat evenly and prevent sticking.
Enjoy your Chicken Sausage & Veggie Pasta Meal Prep! 🍴