Sausage Ragu Cannelloni with Winter Greens

Savory Sausage and Chestnut Pasta Recipe

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This recipe is a perfect mix of flavors. The savory sausage pairs well with the sweet chestnuts. It’s a creamy dish that’s great for winter. So let’s dive into my sausage and chestnut pasta recipe.

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The chestnuts add a nutty taste and a creamy texture. This makes every bite satisfying. It’s a unique twist on a classic comfort food.

This dish is perfect for a cozy night or a dinner party. The combination of sausage and chestnuts is irresistible. It will surely warm you up on a cold day.

What Kind of Sausage is Best for Sausage and Chestnut Pasta?

Choosing the right sausage is key for a tasty sausage and chestnut pasta dish. I suggest using sweet Italian sausage. It has a sweet and savory taste that goes well with the chestnuts’ earthy flavor.

Choosing the Right Sausage

While you can try different sausages, sweet Italian sausage is my top pick. If you prefer a milder taste, mild breakfast sausage is a good choice. But, avoid spicy or heavily seasoned sausages. They can overpower the dish’s balance.

  • Sweet Italian sausage: The best choice for sausage and chestnut pasta, providing a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes.
  • Mild breakfast sausage: A good alternative if you want a more subtle sausage flavor.
  • Spicy or heavily seasoned sausage: Not recommended, as it may overpower the other ingredients.

The sausage you pick can greatly affect your sausage and chestnut pasta. Sweet Italian or mild breakfast sausage will make your dish comforting and full of flavor.

Are Chestnuts for Sausage and Chestnut Pasta the Same as Water Chestnuts?

When making a tasty sausage and chestnut pasta, knowing the difference between chestnuts and water chestnuts is key. Many think they can swap these ingredients, but they’re not the same.

Chestnuts, the main ingredient, are nuts from chestnut trees. They taste creamy and nutty, perfect with savory sausage. Water chestnuts, however, are a crunchy vegetable used in Asian dishes. For this recipe, use peeled and cooked chestnuts, found canned or jarred in baking aisles or specialty stores.

Both chestnuts and water chestnuts can enhance dishes, but they’re not the same in this recipe. The sweet and creamy taste of chestnuts makes this pasta dish special.

CLICK HERE for my favorite jarred chestnuts on Amazon.

Sausage and Chestnut Pasta Recipe

This sausage and chestnut pasta recipe is perfect for a cozy winter evening. The savory sausage and the sweet chestnuts make a delicious mix. It’s sure to become a favorite in your family.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb short pasta (such as penne, ziti, or rigatoni)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup cooked and peeled chestnuts, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage or rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and chopped chestnuts to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped fresh sage or rosemary and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

This sausage and chestnut pasta dish is perfect for a cold winter night. It combines savory sausage, sweet chestnuts, and a velvety sauce. It’s a comforting and creamy meal that will warm you up. Enjoy it as a family-friendly dinner or a cozy date night at home.

Final Thoughts

The mix of savory sausage and earthy chestnuts in this pasta dish is a delightful twist. The creamy, nutty sauce makes each bite satisfying and cozy. It’s perfect for a chilly winter evening.

This sausage and chestnut pasta is great for adding to your recipe collection or for a comforting meal. It’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

The unique pasta recipe shows how simple ingredients can become a comforting winter meal. Adding sage or rosemary adds warmth and depth. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Enjoying this sausage and chestnut pasta is a great way to enjoy the season’s flavors. Its rich texture and perfect balance of savory and sweet make it a new favorite.

This recipe is part of my 119 Hearty Winter Recipes You’ll Love When It Gets Cold. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!

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Jeff Campbell
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