If you are looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and comforting textures, this Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a delightful marriage of mildly spiced Italian sausage with the natural sweetness of perfectly sautéed bell peppers and onions, all tossed with tender pasta in a lightly seasoned sauce. The dish feels both homey and celebratory, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a casual meal to share with friends. Once you try this Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want something quick but irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty pasta to the colorful peppers and savory sausage, every element comes together effortlessly to create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti): Choose your favorite pasta shape to soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a satisfying bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing to bring richness and enhance the flavor of the sausage and vegetables.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed: The star protein providing savory, spiced notes for depth.
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced: These add vibrant color and sweetness that balances the sausage’s richness.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Adds subtle sweetness and a tender bite once caramelized.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Helps deglaze the pan and meld flavors without overpowering the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy herbiness that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): Adds a gentle kick for those who like a bit of spice.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and elevate every bite.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten the dish with their natural vibrancy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): A salty, nutty finish that takes this dish over the top.
How to Make Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds up nicely when mixed with the sauce. Remember to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon for loosening the sauce later!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage after removing it from its casing, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s deeply browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This caramelization adds a delicious savory depth. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Let them cook over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and start to take on a slight caramelized edge. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and adds a wonderful texture contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, sprinkle in dried oregano, and add crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Stir everything and allow it to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, which helps all the flavors marry beautifully while the broth reduces slightly.
Step 5: Toss in the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. This last step brings all components into one harmonious dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe is now ready! Garnish it with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy every vibrant, comforting bite.
How to Serve Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end brings brightness and a fresh herbal punch that contrasts wonderfully with the rich sausage. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty layer that elevates each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on the plate, turning every bite into a mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a large, rustic bowl sprinkled with colorful herbs and cheese. For a dinner party, portion it into smaller bowls and add a drizzle of good olive oil and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. You can also roast the peppers the day before and add them for a smoky twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the pasta even tastier the next day. Make sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to keep it fresh.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the bell peppers may soften upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, pack the pasta without the Parmesan garnish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can make the sausage tough and the peppers mushy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Italian sausage with chorizo, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No problem. Vegetable broth or even a good-quality water with a pinch of seasoning can be used instead. The broth helps build flavor and loosen the sauce, so some liquid is important.
Is this recipe spicy?
It depends on whether you use spicy Italian sausage and if you include the crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily control the heat by choosing mild sausage and skipping the pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it an easy swap for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Add them during the sauté step to ensure they cook perfectly and blend well with the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation because it hits all the right notes: color, flavor, comfort, and ease. Cooking it is a joyous experience that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and your table with smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Print
Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A flavorful and hearty Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta combining savory Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers and aromatic herbs, all tossed with al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and starting to caramelize.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the chicken broth, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sausage and vegetable mixture. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use any type of pasta you like, choosing shapes that capture the sauce well like penne or rigatoni.
- For a spicier dish, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Parmesan cheese adds a rich umami flavor but can be omitted for a lighter meal.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness; parsley is a milder option compared to basil.
