This Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is a satisfying and delicious dish packed with flavors. The savory sausage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bell peppers, creating a balance that’s rich and comforting. The addition of red onion and garlic adds depth and enhances the overall aroma of the dish.
The dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s easily customizable, so feel free to add more veggies or even some cheese for extra richness. Serve this hearty pasta as a comforting meal for the whole family or impress your guests with a simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 pound penne pasta
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the sliced bell pepper, red onion, and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage and pepper mixture. Toss to combine and let it cook together for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
About Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta
This Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that requires just a handful of ingredients and comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
The sausage adds a rich, meaty flavor to the dish, while the bell peppers bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color. Red onions and garlic contribute a wonderful depth of flavor that really brings the whole dish together. Simmered in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, the sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, this dish is sure to impress. It can be made in one skillet for easy cleanup, and you can even add your favorite cheese on top for an extra creamy touch. It’s customizable to suit your taste preferences, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Making the Perfect Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta:
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Use Your Favorite Sausage: Whether you prefer spicy or mild sausage, this recipe works well with either. You can even use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
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Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the dish. You can also experiment with different types of bell peppers for a pop of color.
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Make It Spicy: For those who like a bit more heat, sprinkle in some extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild sausage.
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Serve with Parmesan: Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta will add richness and flavor. You can also use other cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta for a creamier texture.
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Make It a One-Pot Meal: You can easily turn this into a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the sausage and peppers. Simply add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and cook until tender.
Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta: A Perfect Comfort Meal
Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is the ideal meal for those who crave a savory, comforting dish that is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. With tender penne pasta, juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish has all the elements of a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
The combination of Italian sausage and sweet bell peppers creates a balance of savory and sweet flavors that pair perfectly with the hearty pasta. The dish is enhanced by sautéed onions and garlic, which add aromatic depth to the sauce. The crushed tomatoes and chicken broth simmer together to create a flavorful base that envelops the pasta, making every bite delicious and comforting.
How to Customize This Dish
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Add More Vegetables: This recipe is easily customizable. Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the mix for extra nutrition and texture. You can also experiment with different colored bell peppers for added vibrancy.
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Switch Up the Sausage: Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage. For a spicier dish, opt for hot Italian sausage. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage will work just as well.
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Make It Creamy: For a richer dish, stir in a little cream or top the pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. A dollop of ricotta cheese also adds creaminess and balances the spice of the sausage.
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Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this pasta with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
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Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can easily be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or days when you’re craving a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The hearty sausage, sweet peppers, and savory tomato sauce make this pasta a go-to comfort food that will please everyone at the table.
- Customizable: Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or loaded with vegetables, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With savory sausage, sweet peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be made spicier, creamier, or loaded with extra veggies to suit your taste.
This dish also makes great leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping. Whether for a busy weeknight or a family dinner, Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!