Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta Recipe: The Only Pasta Dish You Need This Year
We are looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and flavorful. This Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is exactly what you need. The spicy, savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic garlic come together in a delicious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family to the table and makes everyone smile. Let’s dive into this simple yet fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- Italian sausage (sweet or spicy): 4 links (about 1 lb.)
- Bell peppers: 2 large (any color or a mix of red, yellow, and green)
- Onion: 1 large
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Canned tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) diced (optional, but adds great flavor)
- Fresh basil: A handful, chopped
- Fresh parsley: A handful, chopped
- Pasta: 12 oz (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well)
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt & pepper: To taste
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, for serving (optional)
Preparation Tips:
- Sausage: Sweet or spicy Italian sausage works best for this dish. You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage, depending on your preference.
- Peppers: Choose a mix of bell peppers for color and flavor, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
- Pasta: While penne or rigatoni are great at holding onto the sauce, any pasta you love will work.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This will help create a silky sauce later.
- Cook the sausage: While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil. Slice the sausage into 1-inch pieces and add them to the pan. Brown the sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks, for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion and bell peppers to the same pan with the sausage. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and beginning to caramelize. Toss in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: If you’re using canned tomatoes, add them to the pan now, along with any juice from the can. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add your cooked pasta to the pan with the sausage and peppers. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is covered in that delicious sausage-pepper sauce.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pan from the heat once nicely mixed. Stir in freshly chopped basil and parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and maybe even a little extra parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- This pasta is perfect, but you can pair it with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine for an extra touch. A warm loaf of garlic bread wouldn’t hurt, either.
Storing and Reheating:
- Leftovers? Lucky you! This dish holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life. You can also microwave it, though the stovetop method keeps the pasta more tender.
Variations and Customizations:
- Sausage: Don’t like pork? Swap it out for chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. It’s an easy way to sneak in more nutrients.
- Make it spicier: If you want an extra kick, toss in some extra red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.
Conclusion:
This Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a family-friendly recipe packed with bold flavors, easy to make, and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a cozy dinner for two, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s flexible, so feel free to make it your own!
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting plate of pasta that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen.
FAQ:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs will work, but fresh makes this dish shine. Cut the amount in half if you use dried, since they’re more concentrated.
