Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a must-try! Combining the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
  • Salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green for a colorful dish)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing:

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. Set the pasta aside.

Pro Tip: Adding a bit of reserved pasta water to your sauce helps it cling better to the pasta and adds extra flavor.


2. Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pan. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, followed by the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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3. Make the Sauce

  1. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  2. Mix in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Pro Tip: For an even richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a handful of grated Parmesan directly into the sauce before mixing with the pasta.


4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
  2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the pasta absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates.
  2. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped basil leaves.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives or skip it entirely and add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
  • Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a cup of shredded mozzarella or provolone for a gooey finish.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy.
  • Customizable: Adapt it to your dietary needs or taste preferences.

This Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or feeding a hungry family, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try tonight, and let the comforting flavors transport you straight to Italy!

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Enjoy your culinary journey!

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