Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the savory richness of Italian sausage with the sweet, vibrant flavors of bell peppers. This simple yet satisfying meal features tender pasta tossed in a light tomato-based sauce, along with sautéed sausage, onions, and garlic, creating a deliciously balanced dish. The combination of spices from the sausage and the sweetness of the peppers makes this pasta dish a comforting and crowd-pleasing option for any weeknight dinner. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced or crumbled
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced or crumbled sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the sausage and pepper mixture, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
This Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and tender pasta.
