Description
Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta is a delectable Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich, savory notes of Italian sausage with the vibrant sweetness of bell peppers. This comforting and satisfying pasta creation is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste, divided
- 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1/2 sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium red or yellow bell peppers, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoon light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 ounce dry short-cut pasta (rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Toasted breadcrumbs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the sliced onion, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 6-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Build the Sauce: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, the brown sugar, oregano, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2 minutes, then return the sausage to the skillet.
5. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the Sweet Pepper and Sausage Pasta with toasted breadcrumbs, if desired. Serve hot and savor every delightful bite!
Notes
Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Ensuring the pasta is cooked to a perfect al dente texture is key.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of brown sugar or balsamic vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
Experiment with Ingredients: Explore other varieties of sausage or try plant-based options for customization.
Adjust Spice Levels: Consider using a hotter variety of sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg