Description
This Pasta with Sausage and Peppers recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish combining tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and sweet bell peppers. Enhanced with garlic, oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this classic Italian-American meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, it delivers a delicious blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the Italian sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine sausage and seasonings: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to evenly distribute the sausage and pepper mixture.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Serve the pasta topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- Red pepper flakes add heat but can be omitted for a milder version.
- Fresh basil enhances flavor but is optional.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
