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