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An extreme close-up of Sausage and Pepper Pasta, showing the texture of the rich tomato sauce clinging to the penne, with bits of sausage and colorful peppers.

Sausage and Pepper Pasta (The Ultimate Weeknight Recipe)

This quick and easy Sausage and Pepper Pasta recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner. Savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and tender onions are tossed in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. A guaranteed family favorite ready in 35 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb penne pasta or other short pasta like rigatoni or ziti
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage mild, sweet, or hot, casings removed
  • 2 bell peppers any color, sliced
  • 1 large yellow onion sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, adjust to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for one minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Return the sausage to the skillet along with the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth sauce.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

Tip 1: For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream at the end.
Tip 2: Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the sausage; work in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a nice, flavorful crust.