Sausage and Peppers Pasta Recipe: A Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Are you looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of sausage and peppers? Look no further than the delicious and easy-to-make sausage and peppers pasta recipe. This mouthwatering dish is a perfect blend of savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic herbs, all tossed together with al dente pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making sausage and peppers pasta, along with some tips and variations to enhance the flavors. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating this delectable dish!

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to make sausage and peppers pasta:

• 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound of your favorite pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making sausage and peppers pasta:

1. Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce later on. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
3. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Leave any drippings in the pan, as they will add flavor to the dish.
4. In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté them until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Next, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. While the sauce is simmering, return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir it into the sauce.
9. Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
11. Remove the pan from the heat and garnish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
12. Serve the sausage and peppers pasta hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance the flavors of your sausage and peppers pasta:

• If you prefer a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to add more depth and texture.
• If you like a saucier pasta, you can increase the amount of diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
• For a creamier sauce, you can stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking.
• If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, you can substitute the dried oregano and basil with their fresh counterparts.
• For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Summary

Sausage and peppers pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. By following the step-by-step instructions and incorporating some tips and variations, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a satisfying result. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a plate of sausage and peppers pasta that will leave you craving for more!