When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the hearty, flavorful combination of sausage, peppers, and pasta. This Italian-inspired classic is the perfect choice for an easy dinner recipe that's both satisfying and full of vibrant colors and rich, bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this one-pan wonder will have everyone gathered around the table in no time. The best part? It’s customizable! Once you master the basic recipe, you can tweak it to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create this simple yet irresistible dish. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store:
- 8 oz of your favorite pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Optional Add-ins
- Sliced mushrooms
- Zucchini
- A splash of heavy cream for a creamier sauce
- Spinach or kale for a pop of greens
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking a delicious Sausage and Peppers Pasta is simpler than it seems. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large, deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the pan with the sautéed veggies. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked sausage back to the pan, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Customization
- Make it spicy: Love a kick in your meals? Opt for hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes.
- Go veggie-heavy: Toss in extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to up the nutrient factor.
- Creamy twist: For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end.
- Gluten-free option: Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a feast for the eyes and the palate. The bold sausage pairs beautifully with sweet bell peppers, savory onions, and tangy tomatoes. Tossed with pasta and topped with Parmesan, it’s a dish that sits at the intersection of cozy and gourmet. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze.
This easy dinner recipe has all the makings of a weeknight winner. It’s quick, delicious, and versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try tonight, and you’ll see why it’s a family favorite!
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