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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 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
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pan. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, followed by the onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Mix in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer the sauce for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- 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
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the pasta absorb the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates.
- 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!
Enjoy your culinary journey!
