Description
This spicy sausage and pepper pasta is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish featuring savory sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a spicy tomato sauce tossed with tender pasta. It’s a quick, hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or your favorite pasta
- Salt, for boiling water
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onion, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream (if using). Let simmer for 5 minutes, then add Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- or a lighter option, you can skip the heavy cream and use chicken or vegetable broth instead.
- Add more red pepper flakes if you like extra heat!
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Dish