Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta

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There are nights when I crave something hearty, flavorful, and completely satisfying—but I have zero interest in scrubbing multiple pots and pans afterward. That’s where this Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta comes to the rescue. It’s cozy comfort food that doesn’t skimp on taste or simplicity. I’ve made this dish countless times, and it always hits the spot, whether I’m cooking for my family or whipping up a quick dinner for myself.

The smoky, slightly sweet flavor of chicken apple sausage pairs beautifully with juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to the pasta. Best of all, everything cooks in just one pan, making cleanup as easy as the cooking. It’s a weeknight lifesaver with weekend-worthy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta

This dish is the definition of comfort and convenience. You only need one pan, which means less mess and fewer dishes. It’s packed with layers of flavor: savory chicken apple sausage, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and a hint of tomato tang all topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs. It feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly, even on your busiest days.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

I usually go with short pasta like rotini or penne for this recipe because they hold onto the sauce so well. But if you love the look of swirly pasta like fusilli or something with extra nooks like cavatappi, go for it! The key is to choose a pasta that can absorb flavor and cook evenly with the other ingredients.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have chicken apple sausage? You can substitute with smoked turkey sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Not a fan of cream? Swap in half-and-half or even a splash of full-fat coconut milk. And if you’re dairy-free, skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free version—this recipe is flexible and still delicious with swaps.

Ingredients for this Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta

Chicken Apple Sausage – This is the star of the dish. It brings a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that perfectly balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the sausage and develop flavor at the base of the dish.

Onion – Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the overall taste. I prefer yellow onions for their mellow profile.

Garlic – Essential for aroma and that signature Italian-style flavor punch.

Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with juicy, slightly tart flavor. They provide freshness and color to the dish.

Pasta – Short pasta like penne or fusilli works best. It absorbs the sauce well and holds up in one-pan cooking.

Chicken Broth – Used to cook the pasta and infuse it with rich, savory flavor.

Heavy Cream – Creates that luscious, silky sauce that makes this pasta irresistible.

Parmesan Cheese – Brings saltiness and umami to the creamy sauce. Always grate fresh if you can.

Salt and Black Pepper – For seasoning the dish to taste.

Fresh Basil or Parsley – Adds a pop of color and herby brightness to balance the richness.

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Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken apple sausage and cook until browned on all sides. This not only warms the sausage but gives it a nice caramelized texture.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Stir in the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook down slightly, releasing their juices. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Stir in the Pasta

Add your pasta of choice straight into the pan. Stir to submerge as much of it as possible in the liquid. Cover and let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in the heavy cream. Let it bubble gently, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a bright finish.

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How Long to Prepare the Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta

Prep Time: You’ll need about 10–15 minutes to prep the ingredients. This includes slicing the sausage, dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, halving the tomatoes, and measuring out the pasta and liquids. If you’re a quick chopper, you might do it even faster.

Cook Time: The cooking process takes around 25–30 minutes from start to finish. Browning the sausage and sautéing the aromatics takes the first 10 minutes, while the pasta cooks and the sauce thickens in the remaining time. Altogether, you’re looking at a total of 40–45 minutes for a home-cooked, restaurant-quality meal.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta

• Use a deep, wide pan with a lid to allow room for the pasta to cook evenly and for the sauce to reduce properly.
• Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives the sauce a silkier finish.
• Add the cream after the pasta is cooked to avoid curdling and to help maintain its smooth texture.
• Don’t skip the fresh herbs at the end—they really brighten up the dish.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on it and taste-test toward the end. You want it al dente, not mushy.
• Adding cream too early: It may separate if added before the pasta is mostly cooked and the broth has reduced.
• Not seasoning in layers: Seasoning each component as you go builds better flavor than just salting at the end.
• Using too much liquid: Stick to the recommended amount or the sauce might end up too runny.
• Skipping the simmer: Letting the pasta and broth simmer together helps the starch thicken the sauce naturally.

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What to Serve With Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta?

1. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp, lightly dressed salad helps balance out the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds texture, color, and a healthy veggie boost to your plate.

4. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy, these pair well with the sausage’s apple notes.

5. Sparkling Water or White Wine

A refreshing drink option to keep the meal light and enjoyable.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezer: You can freeze this pasta, though the cream sauce might change in texture slightly upon reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—cover the dish and stir halfway through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: These values are approximate per serving and will vary based on exact brands and quantities used.

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir the pasta occasionally as it simmers to prevent it from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta instead?

It’s best to cook the pasta in the pan with the broth to absorb all the flavors. Pre-cooked pasta may turn mushy.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk with a bit of butter as a substitute, though the sauce may be less rich.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Watch the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

No, chicken apple sausage is typically sweet and mild. If you like heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or swap in a spicy sausage.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Apple Sausage One Pan Pasta is a go-to recipe when you need something warm, comforting, and effortless. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, date-night dinners, or cozy family meals. With simple ingredients and just one pan to clean, it’s a dish that fits into real life—and makes it more delicious.

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