Dinner

Chicken Sausage Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers and Spinach Recipe

BySophie Carsel January 29, 2026January 29, 2026

Introduction

This chicken sausage pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly on busy weeknights. Packed with savory sausage, tender spinach, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.

A bowl filled with three layers of food sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light golden penne pasta arranged loosely. On top of the pasta, there are medium-sized, round meatballs that are light brown with a slightly crispy texture. Scattered among the meatballs and pasta are bright red tomato chunks and wilted dark green spinach leaves. The top layer is a generous sprinkle of finely grated white cheese, adding texture and contrast. The setting includes a soft pink cloth napkin nearby and a partially visible glass filled with a golden drink. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp sunflower oil
1 onion, chopped
400g chicken sausage, sliced
1 large garlic clove, crushed or finely grated
200g roasted red peppers, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin (optional)
½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)
400g can chopped tomatoes
100g spinach
500g penne or rigatoni pasta

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the sunflower oil in a large lidded frying pan or saucepan over medium heat. Fry the chopped onion for 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
Step 2: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pan and fry for 4-5 minutes until the pieces start to brown.
Step 3: Stir in the crushed garlic, chopped roasted red peppers, ground cumin, and chilli flakes if using. Season well with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add half a can of water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the sausages are fully cooked.
Step 5: Add the spinach to the pan, stir to combine, cover, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
Step 6: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking water.
Step 7: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and gently stir to combine. Cook together for 2-3 minutes, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
Step 8: Serve the pasta hot, garnished if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering.
Swap chicken sausage for spicy chorizo or pork sausage for a different taste.
If you prefer, use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier green.
Add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese on top when serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water to loosen the sauce if needed.