Italian Kale with Turkey Sausage and Penne
Savor the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Italian Kale with Turkey Sausage and Penne recipe—a wholesome, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Tender penne pasta is tossed with nutrient-packed kale, savory turkey sausage, and a light, flavorful sauce made from garlic, onion, and chicken broth. A touch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, indulgent finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pan wonder is a satisfying meal that combines lean protein, fresh greens, and classic Italian flavors. Pair it with a crisp salad or rustic bread for a complete and comforting dinner. Keywords: Italian kale recipe, turkey sausage pasta, penne with kale and sausage, healthy Italian dinner, quick pasta recipe.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 piece medium onion, diced
- 4 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
- 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Add the turkey sausage to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the chopped kale to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.
Season the mixture with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer the Italian Kale with Turkey Sausage and Penne to serving bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2725 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 128.3 g | 164% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.9 g | 174% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 358 mg | 119% | |
| Sodium | 5597 mg | 243% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 272.1 g | 99% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.0 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.3 g | ||
| Protein | 122.9 g | 246% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 596 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 19.2 mg | 107% | |
| Potassium | 2020 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
