Savory Sausage Pepper Pasta

This hearty sausage pepper pasta has been my weeknight dinner savior for years, combining vibrant bell peppers with savory Italian sausage in a dish that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor.

I first made this dish when I needed to feed unexpected dinner guests without making a grocery store run. It was such a hit that it became part of our regular meal rotation, earning the nickname "emergency pasta" in our household because it never fails to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: provides the perfect shape for holding the chunky sauce
• Salt: for pasta water ensures your pasta is properly seasoned from within
• Ground Italian sausage: brings rich flavor without requiring additional seasonings
• Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish
• Yellow bell pepper: provides a complementary sweetness and visual contrast
• Onion: creates an aromatic base that grounds the entire dish
• Canned diced tomatoes: offer convenience and consistent texture year round
• Italian seasoning blend: saves time while delivering classic Mediterranean flavors
• Parmesan cheese: adds the perfect salty finish and richness to each bite

Always opt for Italian sausage with visible herbs and spices in the meat for maximum flavor. For bell peppers, choose ones that feel heavy for their size with tight, unwrinkled skin to ensure freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding enough salt to make it taste like the sea. Cook the penne according to package directions until just al dente. Before draining, carefully reserve one full cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid gold will help create silky sauce later.

Brown the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium high heat, break the ground Italian sausage into small pieces. Cook thoroughly for about 6 minutes until no pink remains and the meat develops crispy brown edges. These caramelized bits contribute significant flavor to the final dish. Pour off excess fat, leaving just enough to sauté the vegetables.

Develop the Flavor Base:

Add the diced onions to the sausage in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning and to help the onions absorb the sausage flavor.

Create the Sauce:

Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, both cans of diced tomatoes with their juice, and the Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine thoroughly and allow everything to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This cooking time softens the peppers while concentrating the tomato flavor and allowing all the seasonings to bloom.

Combine and Finish:

Transfer the cooked and drained pasta to either the skillet if large enough or back to the pasta pot. Pour the entire sausage and pepper mixture over the pasta and toss gently to combine. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, starting with just a quarter cup, until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to every piece of pasta.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the contrast between the sweet bell peppers and the savory sausage. My grandmother always insisted that the secret to great Italian cooking wasn't complicated techniques but allowing simple, quality ingredients to shine through. This dish honors that philosophy perfectly, bringing vibrant colors and flavors to the table without fuss.

Make Ahead Options

This pasta dish can be prepared up to two days in advance. Cook everything as directed but undercook the pasta slightly. Store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine in a large skillet with a splash of fresh pasta water or broth and heat gently until warmed through. The flavors actually develop wonderfully overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option.

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Ingredient Substitutions

While traditional Italian sausage provides the most authentic flavor, turkey or chicken sausage works wonderfully for a lighter option. Vegetarians can use plant based sausage alternatives or even mushrooms sautéed with Italian herbs. For a gluten free version, simply swap in your favorite gluten free pasta and double check your sausage ingredients. Any color bell peppers can be used based on preference or availability, and fire roasted diced tomatoes add an extra layer of smoky flavor if you have them on hand.

Serving Suggestions

This robust pasta dish stands perfectly on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil creates a beautifully balanced meal. For a more substantial spread, serve alongside garlic bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce. A glass of medium bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato and sausage flavors beautifully. For a finishing touch that elevates the dish, sprinkle with fresh basil chiffonade or Italian parsley right before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute the penne with your favorite pasta type, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Adjust boiling time as needed to achieve the desired texture.

→ What can I use instead of Italian sausage?

If you prefer, you can substitute Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, chicken, or a plant-based sausage alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

→ How do I achieve the perfect sauce consistency?

Add reserved pasta water gradually to the sausage mixture while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This helps tie everything together.

→ Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for an added nutrient boost and extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage and pepper mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet, then add freshly cooked pasta before serving.