Introduction
Looking for a quick and delicious meal that satisfies everyone at the table? These 15-minute Chicken Sausage Pasta Meal Prep Bowls are just what you need! Packed with colorful bell peppers, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in no time and is great for meal prep. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped (mix of colors for a lively dish)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and set it aside to let the steam escape.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to warm gently.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes. The edges will develop a nice crispiness.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until the aroma fills your kitchen and the garlic turns fragrant.
- Next, toss in the chopped bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften and their vibrant colors begin to shine.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and packed spinach to the skillet. Cook everything until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes; this adds a lovely touch of green to your meal prep bowls.
- Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
- Finally, fold in the cooked pasta, stirring everything together until it’s well combined and heated through. This step ensures every bite is infused with flavor.
- Serve immediately, or divide into meal prep containers for an easy grab-and-go option, garnishing with finely grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season!
- To make this dish even heartier, consider adding white beans or chickpeas for additional protein and fiber.
- If you’re prepping for the week, store the meal prep bowls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering this Chicken Sausage Pasta is all about timing and temperature. Keep the heat at medium to ensure the sausage cooks evenly without burning the garlic. This recipe showcases the beauty of sautéing, which allows you to develop deep flavors quickly and effectively. The vibrant veggies add both nutrition and a burst of color, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey sausage or even a vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile. - What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread can complement this pasta perfectly. - Can this recipe be frozen?
For best results, freeze the cooked pasta and sausage separately from the vegetables. Reheat and enjoy whenever you like!
Conclusion
This 15-minute Chicken Sausage Pasta Meal Prep Bowls recipe is your go-to for a delicious and quick meal that’s packed with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can provide a nourishing dish that everyone will love. Perfect for meal prepping, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful homemade meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying!