This Easy Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is a fun and tasty dish! It features colorful sweet peppers and juicy sausage mixed with pasta for a perfect meal on any day.
I love how quick it is to whip up—just cook the pasta, sauté the peppers and sausage, and mix! It’s like a party for your taste buds. 🎉 Your family will ask for seconds for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne is my go-to for this dish as its shape holds sauce well. However, any pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti works too. Just choose your favorite!
Sausage: Sweet Italian sausage brings fantastic flavor. If you’re after a healthier option, turkey sausage is great! You can also use chicken sausage or plant-based versions for a meatless option.
Bell Peppers: I love using both red and yellow peppers for their sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, green peppers are fine, though they have a more bitter taste. You could also toss in some chopped zucchini or spinach for more veggies!
Cheese: Parmesan is classic for this recipe. If you want a creamier finish, try mixing in mozzarella or even feta for a tangy twist.
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sausage can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it. Start by using medium heat. This allows the sausage to brown nicely without burning. Here are the steps:
- Break the sausage into smaller pieces if using crumbled sausage; this helps it cook evenly.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s brown and no longer pink inside. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the skillet; if cooking a lot, do it in batches to get that nice caramelization.
After brown, remove it to add back later with the veggies. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage (mild or sweet), sliced or crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for a light sauce)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta dish will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of your delicious dish!
2. Sauté the Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced or crumbled sweet Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sweet bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. This will bring out their natural sweetness and flavor!
4. Add Garlic and Optional Ingredients:
Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. If you’re adding diced tomatoes, stir them in now and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
5. Bring It All Together:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Mix it with the sautéed veggies. Season everything with salt and black pepper to taste. Then, toss in the drained pasta and stir everything together gently, so it’s well combined and warm.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with chopped basil or parsley just before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful, colorful, and easy Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta! This dish is sure to become a family favorite! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While sweet Italian sausage is recommended for its flavor, you can use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a kick, or even turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Pasta Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, skip the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives. Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach for more flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine just before serving. This way, the pasta stays firm and the sauce retains its freshness!
