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Delicious chicken sausage pasta meal prep with fresh ingredients in a bowl.

Chicken Sausage Pasta Meal Prep

A comforting, protein-rich pasta dish featuring chicken sausage and your favorite pasta, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 box Banza pasta (or your favorite pasta) Choose a shape you like (penne, fusilli, shells).
  • 2 cups your favorite pasta sauce Jarred marinara, tomato basil, or a simple tomato sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
  • 1 large bag frozen mixed vegetables Look for mixes with bell peppers, peas, carrots, corn, and green beans.
  • 4 links fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced Pre-cooked links make this fast and safe.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
Optional Add-ons
  • Parmesan cheese, for garnish Freshly grated adds flavor and a cozy finish.
  • Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped Brighten the dish at the end.
  • Chili flakes, to taste For a gentle heat if you like spice.
  • Additional fresh vegetables like spinach or zucchini, chopped Add toward the end to keep texture bright.
  • A squeeze of lemon Brightens the sauce if it tastes flat.
  • Red onion or garlic For deeper flavor; sauté for a minute before the sausage if using.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prep your ingredients first: bring out the frozen vegetables and set them near the stove for easy access.
  2. Slice the chicken sausage into even coins (about 1/2-inch thick).
  3. If using fresh zucchini or spinach, chop the zucchini into half-moons and rinse the spinach; pat it dry.
  4. Grate the Parmesan and chop herbs so everything is ready for garnish.
Cooking the Pasta
  1. Fill a large pot two-thirds full with water and add a big pinch of salt.
  2. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
  3. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
  4. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  5. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Cooking the Sausage
  1. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced chicken sausage in a single layer and let sear for about 2 minutes.
  3. Flip and brown the other side for another 1–2 minutes.
Cooking the Vegetables
  1. In the same skillet, add the frozen mixed vegetables directly.
  2. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. If using onions or garlic, add them now and cook until fragrant.
Combining Everything
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the pasta sauce. Stir to mix.
  2. Add any optional fresh vegetables and stir to incorporate.
  3. Taste the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
  4. Add the browned chicken sausage back and stir to warm through.
  5. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until coated. Use reserved pasta water if needed.
Serving
  1. If serving immediately, plate and top with Parmesan, fresh herbs, and chili flakes.
  2. For meal prep, cool the pasta to room temperature, then portion into containers.

Notes

Store in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or in a skillet over low heat.