Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Bowtie Pasta & Chicken Sausage Skillet Bake. Combining succulent chicken sausage with colorful vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to perfection in a cheesy, herby sauce, this dish is a testament to the joy of seasonal cooking. It's a one-pan wonder that promises a burst of flavors and textures, making it the perfect meal to enjoy on warm summer evenings.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1/6th of skillet
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 yellow squash, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, zucchini, squash, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet. Add cherry tomatoes and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick, choose a hot or spicy variety of chicken sausage.
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute chicken sausage with a plant-based alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the skillet bake ahead of time and refrigerate. Just bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
Assemble the bake in a regular skillet and transfer it to a baking dish before topping with cheese and baking.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken sausage is gluten-free.
With every forkful of this Summer Bowtie Pasta & Chicken Sausage Skillet Bake, let the bright and cheerful essence of summer dining fill your home. It's more than just a meal; it's a celebration of the season's bounty, meant to be shared and savored under the golden sun. Here’s to delicious adventures and the simple pleasures of homemade delights.