Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of sausage and pasta? The rich, savory flavors of the sausage mingling perfectly with tender pasta create a culinary hug that warms your soul. Picture the aroma wafting through your kitchen, tantalizing your senses and beckoning everyone to the dinner table.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a cherished memory-maker. I remember whipping this up for a last-minute dinner with friends. Laughter filled the air as I tossed ingredients into the pot, and soon enough, we were all digging in, relishing every bite. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings, promising an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sausage and pasta recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The mix of flavors creates a delightful taste sensation that pleases everyone
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it can be easily customized with whatever veggies you have on hand!
My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was – they even went back for thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or mild based on your preference; both add fantastic flavor to the dish.
Pasta: Any shape works well; I love using penne for its ability to hold sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor; chop them finely for maximum impact.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes provide juiciness; opt for fire-roasted for an added smoky depth.
Onion: Sweet onions balance flavors perfectly; sauté until they turn golden brown.
Bell Peppers: Add color and crunch; feel free to mix red, yellow, or green for a vibrant look.
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; use extra virgin for the best taste.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs enhances all flavors; sprinkle freely throughout cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a nutty finish; don’t skimp—more cheese is always better!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sautéing the Base Ingredients: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and the onions become translucent. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Browning the Sausage: Crumble Italian sausage into the skillet and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks so that every piece gets that lovely caramelization.
Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: Toss in chopped bell peppers along with canned diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.
Cooking the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions in boiling salted water until al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve some pasta water before draining; it’ll help if you need to adjust sauce consistency later.
Combining Everything Together: Once your sausage mixture has thickened slightly, add cooked pasta into the skillet. Gently stir everything together while adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Topping with Cheese and Serving Up!: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. Let it melt slightly as you dish out generous portions into bowls—everyone will be drooling at this point!
Now you have an easy yet delicious sausage and pasta recipe that’s guaranteed to impress! Enjoy every flavorful bite while soaking in those happy vibes around your table.
You Must Know
- Mastering sausage and pasta recipes allows for endless creativity, from spicy Italian to creamy Alfredo
- The delightful combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone at the table wanting more
- Customize it for any occasion, and watch as smiles spread with every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in a pan, then add garlic and onions before cooking the pasta. This sequence ensures layers of flavor develop while the pasta cooks perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses or spices to create your own signature dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference
- Use high-quality sausage for rich flavor, and don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley elevate the dish beautifully
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a family gathering where my uncle couldn’t stop eating! His enthusiastic “Mmms” after each bite were priceless and made my day.
FAQ
What types of sausage work best in sausage and pasta recipes?
Italian sausage is popular, but chicken or turkey options are great for lighter meals.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute sausage with plant-based options or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
How do I know when my pasta is perfectly cooked?
Aim for al dente texture; it should be firm yet tender with just a slight bite when you taste it.
Sausage and Pasta
Savor the comforting combination of sausage and pasta in this delightful dish that warms both heart and home. Rich, savory Italian sausage pairs perfectly with tender pasta and vibrant vegetables, creating a meal that’s as inviting as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this easy recipe guarantees satisfied appetites and happy memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 cup bell peppers (chopped, mixed colors)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Crumble Italian sausage into the skillet; cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in chopped bell peppers and canned tomatoes with juices; let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sausage mixture in the skillet; stir gently to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
