Ricotta-Pesto Pasta with Sausage and Kale
Ricotta-Pesto Pasta with Sausage and Kale is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the creamy texture of ricotta cheese with the earthy taste of pesto, the savory flavor of sausage, and the nutrient-packed goodness of kale. This delicious and hearty pasta dish is a perfect choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests on special occasions.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Additional Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins
Servings:
10
Yield:
10 servings
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Step 2
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, for about 9 minutes (pasta will not be fully cooked.) Drain, reserving 1/2 cup cooking water. Set aside.
Step 3
While pasta is cooking, place sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove sausage to a paper towel-lined plate and leave grease in the pan.
Step 4
Add oil to the skillet and saute for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minutes. Add kale, nutmeg, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Deglaze the pan with white wine and cook until kale is soft, 5 to 10 more minutes.
Step 5
Return sausage back to the pan. Add ricotta, pesto, and 6 ounces mozzarella cheese. Add reserved pasta and cooking water. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. Pour into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle remaining mozzarella over top. Cover with foil.
Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
521
Calories
25g
Fat
45g
Carbs
28g
Protein
Complement
The combination of the rich ricotta cheese and the aromatic pesto creates a luscious and indulgent sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The addition of Italian sausage brings a deliciously meaty and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, while the kale adds a pop of color and a nutritious boost. This dish is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet and to enjoy a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply love a good pasta dish, Ricotta-Pesto Pasta with Sausage and Kale is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
