Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta

Name: Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta (uncooked); 2 tbsp olive oil; 400 g Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 onion (sliced); 2 bell peppers (sliced (red and yellow)); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can diced tomatoes ((400g)); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); to taste salt and pepper

40 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A vibrant, flavour-packed pasta dish featuring spicy sausage and colourful bell peppers—perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Sausage and Pepper Penne is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines the robust flavours of spicy sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. This meal is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their pasta dishes. The combination of tender penne, savoury sausage, and vibrant peppers creates a dish that's both satisfying and visually appealing. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The beauty of this Sausage and Pepper Penne lies in its simplicity and versatility. By using fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. This version of the classic pasta dish maintains the traditional flavours while offering some tips to elevate your cooking.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Prepare the sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and crumbled for even distribution in the sauce.

Sauté the vegetables

Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.

Pro tip: Avoid burning the garlic by stirring constantly.

Add the liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Pro tip: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer until desired consistency is reached.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Finish with Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.

Pro tip: Adding cheese off the heat prevents it from clumping.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh sausage for the best flavour; remove casings if needed.
Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce for extra creaminess.
For a spicy kick, opt for hot Italian sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sausage and pepper penne?

Sausage and pepper penne is an Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring spicy sausage and bell peppers in a tomato-based sauce.

How many calories are in sausage and pepper penne?

One serving of sausage and pepper penne has approximately 520 calories.

Can I make sausage and pepper penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sausage and pepper mixture ahead and refrigerate for up to two days. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, is ideal for this recipe. Remove the casings before cooking.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta like rigatoni or fusilli, which hold sauce well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Sausage and Pepper Penne hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. You can prepare the sausage and pepper mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and combine it with freshly cooked penne pasta. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.