Savor the delightful blend of flavors in this sausage and pepper pasta recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish combines the spiciness of Italian sausages, the sweetness of bell peppers, and the rich taste of tomato sauce. Tossed with rigatoni pasta and topped with parmesan cheese, every bite is a burst of delight.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples. However, you might want to check for Johnsonville Italian sausage links, a particular kind of sausage known for its blend of spices and texture. If not available, any Italian sausage will do. The other ingredient is rigatoni, a tube-shaped pasta that holds up well against hearty sauces. If not available, other pasta types like penne or fusilli can be used.
Ingredients for Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Johnsonville Italian sausage links: This brand of sausage is known for its unique blend of spices and texture. Can be substituted with any Italian sausage.
Rigatoni pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that pairs well with hearty sauces. Penne or fusilli can be used as a substitute.
Butter: Adds richness to the dish and helps sauté the vegetables.
Bell peppers: Adds sweetness and crunch to the dish. You can use a mix of colors for visual appeal.
Onion: Adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Enhances the taste of the dish. Fresh garlic is preferable for more robust flavor.
Tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce. Choose a good quality sauce for best results.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried Italian herbs that adds flavor to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and a nice finish to the dish.
Parsley: Used as garnish, adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
One reader, Bernette Roby says:
This sausage and pepper pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and it's so easy to make. The combination of the savory sausage, sweet peppers, and rich tomato sauce is simply divine. It's become a family favorite in our household. Highly recommend trying it!
Techniques Required for Sausage and Pepper Pasta Recipe
Grilling the sausages: Cook the sausages on a preheated grill, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
Cooking the pasta: Boil the pasta in a pot of salted water until it is al dente, then drain it.
Sauteing the peppers: Cook the peppers in a pan with melted butter over medium-high heat until they are softened and lightly browned.
Sauteing the onions: Cook the onions in the same pan with butter over medium heat until they are softened.
Making the tomato sauce: Combine the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning in the pan with the onions and bring it to a simmer.
Tossing the pasta with the sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and mix it with the tomato sauce until it is well coated.
Arranging the sausage and peppers: Place the sliced sausages and sauteed peppers over the pasta.
Garnishing with parmesan and parsley: Sprinkle the dish with parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.
How To Make Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Vibrant bell peppers and savory Italian sausages make up this sausage and pepper pasta recipe. Tomato sauce serves as the base for this hearty meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 19ozJohnsonville Italian Sausage Links,(1 pkg) sweet or hot
- 12ozrigatoni pasta
- 2tbspbutter,divided use
- 2cupsbell peppers,sliced
- ½cuponion,diced
- 1tspgarlic,minced
- 16oztomato sauce
- 1tspItalian seasoning
- salt,to taste
- pepper,to taste
- ¼cupParmesan cheese,grated
- 2tbspparsley,chopped
Instructions
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Grill the sausages.
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Cut the sausages into slices.
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Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions.
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Melt one tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium high heat. Add the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until peppers have softened and are lightly browned. Remove the peppers from the pan.
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Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and onion to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 for 6 minutes or until onions are softened.
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Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds.
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Add the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning to the pan and bring to a simmer.
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Drain the pasta and toss with the tomato sauce.
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Arrange the sliced sausage and peppers over the pasta. Sprinkle with parmesan and parsley, then serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 746.31kcal
- Fat: 41.84g
- Saturated Fat: 16.55g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.38g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.11g
- Carbohydrates: 62.75g
- Fiber: 5.47g
- Sugar: 8.32g
- Protein: 29.00g
- Cholesterol: 99.14mg
- Sodium: 1328.81mg
- Calcium: 155.27mg
- Potassium: 877.58mg
- Iron: 3.83mg
- Vitamin A: 174.84µg
- Vitamin C: 88.09mg
Crucial Technique Tips for Sausage and Pepper Pasta
When grilling the sausages, ensure they are cooked evenly by turning them frequently. This will not only give them a nice char but also prevent them from burning. Additionally, when slicing the sausages, try to keep the slices uniform in thickness. This will ensure that they heat evenly when added back into the pan. Lastly, when cooking the pasta, stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
Time-Saving Tips for Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and slice sausages the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and the sauce simultaneously, saving time and reducing clean-up.
Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sausage and peppers to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the mess and reduce the time spent on post-cooking cleanup.
Efficient organization: Organize your ingredients and tools before starting to cook to streamline the cooking process.
Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor or mandoline to quickly chop vegetables and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage and Pepper Pasta Recipe
johnsonville italian sausage links - Substitute with beyond meat sausage: Beyond Meat sausage is a plant-based alternative that offers a similar texture and flavor to traditional sausage, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
rigatoni pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar shape and texture to rigatoni, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and will add a rich flavor to the dish.
bell peppers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar crunch and mild flavor to bell peppers in the dish.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a unique twist to the recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is not available, garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute.
tomato sauce - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a base for the sauce, providing a chunkier texture and fresh tomato flavor.
italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano and basil: A combination of dried oregano and basil can replicate the flavors of Italian seasoning in the recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a similar salty and nutty flavor to Parmesan and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can provide a similar herbaceous flavor and bright green color to the dish.
Presenting Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Elevate the plating: When presenting this sausage and pepper pasta, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, flat pasta bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top of the pasta to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, porcelain or ceramic serving dishes to enhance the sophisticated presentation of this classic Italian dish.
Emphasize balance and symmetry: Arrange the sliced sausage and peppers meticulously on top of the pasta, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing composition.
Consider the color contrast: When plating, pay attention to the color contrast between the pasta, sausage, and peppers. This will create an aesthetically pleasing and appetizing presentation.
Highlight the parmesan: Grate fresh parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving to add a touch of elegance and a savory aroma to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Sausage and Pepper Pasta
- Grill: A cooking appliance used to cook food over direct heat, typically using gas or charcoal.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Pan: A cooking vessel used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used to drain liquids from food, such as pasta or vegetables.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and flipping food items.
- Pot: A cooking container used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items, such as sausages or pasta.
- Grater: A tool used to shred or grate ingredients, such as cheese or vegetables.
- Measuring cup: A tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
- Pasta pot: A large pot with a strainer insert designed for cooking and draining pasta.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying and sautéing ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Sausage and Pepper Pasta
- Let the sausage and pepper pasta cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to eat, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
- To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen sausage and pepper pasta can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat from frozen, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator.
- Once thawed, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen pasta directly in the microwave or on the stovetop, but it may take longer to heat through and require more frequent stirring to prevent burning.
- When reheating, ensure that the pasta and sausage are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
How To Reheat Leftover Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Stovetop method: place the leftover sausage and pepper pasta in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. stir occasionally until the pasta is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. if the sauce appears too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover pasta to a microwave-safe dish. add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, then stir the pasta. continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is heated through.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). transfer the leftover pasta to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Regardless of the reheating method, be sure to taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. you may want to add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, a dash of italian seasoning, or a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
If the pasta seems dry after reheating, you can add a small amount of olive oil or butter to help moisten it and improve the texture.
Interesting Facts About Sausage and Pepper Pasta
Italian sausage and bell peppers are a classic combination in Italian cuisine, often used in pasta dishes and sandwiches. The sweetness of the peppers complements the savory and slightly spicy flavor of the sausage, creating a delicious and well-balanced dish.
Is Making Sausage and Pepper Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sausage and pepper pasta recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. Italian sausage and bell peppers can be moderately priced, while pantry staples like pasta and tomato sauce are usually budget-friendly. Considering the yield and flavor profile, this dish offers a satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $20. However, the overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, as it provides a hearty and flavorful dining experience without breaking the bank.
Is Sausage and Pepper Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sausage and pepper pasta recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to a few key factors:
- The use of high-fat Italian sausage, which is often rich in saturated fats and sodium
- The presence of butter, adding additional saturated fat to the dish
- The relatively low proportion of vegetables compared to the amount of meat and pasta
- The inclusion of Parmesan cheese, which contributes to the overall saturated fat and sodium content
However, this recipe does have some redeeming qualities, such as the use of tomato sauce, which provides beneficial lycopene and other nutrients, and the incorporation of bell peppers and onions, offering some dietary fiber and vitamins.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for a leaner Italian chicken or turkey sausage to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use olive oil instead of butter to sauté the vegetables, as it contains healthier monounsaturated fats
- Increase the proportion of bell peppers and onions to boost the dish's fiber and nutrient content
- Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to further enhance the nutritional value
- Use whole wheat pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese used, or opt for a lower-fat alternative
- Consider adding herbs and spices like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes to enhance flavor without increasing calorie content
Editor's Thoughts on This Sausage and Pepper Pasta Dish
The sausage and pepper pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The grilled sausages add a smoky depth, while the sautéed peppers and onions bring a sweet and savory element. The tomato sauce provides a rich and tangy base, perfectly coating the rigatoni pasta. The dish is elevated with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, adding a touch of saltiness and herbaceousness. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to please the palate.
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Why trust this Sausage and Pepper Pasta Recipe:
This recipe features authentic Italian sausage and rigatoni pasta, ensuring a genuine taste of Italy. The combination of bell peppers and onions adds a delightful crunch and sweetness, while the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning bring rich and aromatic flavors. The use of parmesan cheese and parsley as finishing touches guarantees a satisfying and visually appealing dish. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the careful preparation to deliver a truly delicious sausage and pepper pasta experience.
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