Whole Wheat Pasta with Kale and Turkey Sausage Skillet
A hearty one-pan pasta dish combining tender whole wheat noodles with savory Italian turkey sausage and nutrient-rich kale. The bell peppers and onions add sweetness while garlic brings depth to this wholesome weeknight meal. Perfect for families seeking a balanced dinner that delivers protein, vegetables, and comfort in every bite. The optional Parmesan adds a finishing touch of richness.
Ingredients
- 6 oz dry whole-wheat pasta
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ medium yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 8 oz Italian-style turkey sausage, choppedchicken sausage1:1protein
similar texture and flavor
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- sea salt
- ground black pepper
- ½ cup low-sodium organic fat-free chicken brothvegetable broth1:1vegetarianFull guide →
- 1 bunch kale, ribs removed, chopped (about 3 cups)
- 1 Tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package directions and set aside
- 2
Heat large skillet over medium heat
- 3
Add oil, bell pepper, and onion and cook stirring frequently until onion is translucent
- 4
Add sausage and garlic and season with salt and pepper if desired and cook stirring frequently until sausage starts to brown
- 5
Add broth and kale and cook stirring occasionally adding additional broth or water as needed until kale is soft
- 6
Add pasta to sausage mixture
- 7
Top with cheese if desired
Tips
Remove kale ribs completely before chopping to avoid tough, fibrous pieces in the final dish.
Keep extra broth handy to add moisture if the kale seems too dry while cooking.
Let sausage develop good browning for deeper flavor before adding the liquid ingredients.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Can prep vegetables up to 1 day ahead
Serve hot directly from skillet with additional Parmesan if desired
Common Mistakes
Cook kale just until wilted to avoid mushy texture
Don't skip browning the sausage to avoid bland flavor
Substitutions
less fiber
similar texture and flavor
FAQ
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, any short pasta shape works well. Regular pasta will have a milder flavor and softer texture than whole wheat.
What if I don't have chicken broth?
Use vegetable broth, water, or even white wine. You may need to adjust seasoning if using plain water.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently in microwave or skillet with a splash of broth.