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A bowl of pesto pasta with sausage, mozzarella, and fresh basil, topped with parmesan cheese.

Delicious Pesto Pasta with Sausage & Mozzarella


  • Author: Mery Johnston
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340g) cavatappi or pasta of choice
  • 2 sausages (chicken, turkey, or Italian), sliced
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step by Step:

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

  • Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2️⃣ Sauté the Sausage:

  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add sliced sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.

3️⃣ Combine Everything:

  • In a large bowl, toss the drained pasta with pesto and a splash of reserved pasta water for a creamy consistency.
  • Add the cooked sausage, mozzarella balls, and Parmesan.

4️⃣ Season & Garnish:

  • Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:

  • Plate the pasta warm and enjoy the perfect mix of flavors!

Notes

For extra flavor, try roasting cherry tomatoes or adding sun-dried tomatoes to the mix!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~500 per serving
  • Protein: ~30g