Looking for a dinner that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t take hours to make? This Spicy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a fantastic choice. It’s a hearty meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and a hint of spice in a rich sauce is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step By Step Making
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve the pasta immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving)
Protein: 30g, Calories: 450, Carbs: 40g
Health Benefits
This pasta dish offers a good source of protein from the Italian sausage, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidant benefits that help protect your cells from damage. The tomatoes contribute lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health. Overall, this meal provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates for energy and essential nutrients.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by umernews.com for general informational purposes only.