Craving a hearty and flavorful meal that comes together in a flash? This Speedy Sausage and Peppers with Pasta is your answer! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights, bringing together savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and tender pasta in a delicious sauce. You’ll love how little effort it takes to create something so tasty.
Health Benefits
This dish offers a good balance of nutrients. Sausage provides protein to help you feel full and build muscle. Bell peppers are packed with vitamins, especially Vitamin C, which is great for your immune system. The pasta contributes carbohydrates for energy, fueling your day. When made with lean sausage and plenty of vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for a quick meal.
Ingredients Needed
* 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 large onion, sliced
* 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step By Step Making
1
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. If using links, remove them from the casings before browning. Drain off any excess grease.
3
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more until fragrant.
5
Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well.
6
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
7
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add a splash more pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
8
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Value
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Each serving contains about 550 calories, 35 grams of protein, and 45 grams of carbohydrates.