Why Make This Recipe
One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this pasta will surely please everyone at the table. Plus, you only need one pot to prepare it, making the cleanup a breeze.
This dish is not only tasty but also simple to make. It combines sausage, peppers, and pasta, creating a comforting meal that feels like home. If you’re short on time or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Equipment Needed For One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
To make this flavorful pasta dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.
You will require a large, deep skillet or a wide pot with at least a 3.5-quart capacity. This will give you plenty of space to cook the sausage, sauce, and pasta together without spilling.
A wooden spoon or a spatula helps in stirring the ingredients as they cook. Having measuring cups and spoons on hand will also make measuring your ingredients much easier.
Lastly, a sharp knife and a cutting board are necessary for chopping the vegetables.
What You Need to Make One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or more as needed)
- 12 oz tomato basil pasta sauce (half of a 24-oz jar)
- 1 cup half-and-half (fat free if desired; OR heavy cream; OR evaporated milk)
- 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 (12-oz) jar roasted red peppers (drained and diced)
- 2 oz cream cheese (1/4 of a Philly brick)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
How to Cook One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta Step by Step
Start by browning the meat. In your large, deep skillet or wide pot, add 1 pound of ground Italian sausage along with 1 cup of chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the sausage with your spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until the meat is browned and the onion becomes translucent.
Once the meat is browned, it’s time to add the liquids and pasta. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, followed by 12 oz of tomato basil pasta sauce, and then add 1 cup of half-and-half. Bring this mixture to a rapid boil. Don’t forget to stir well to combine all the ingredients! Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in 12 oz of uncooked penne pasta, along with the 12 oz jar of roasted red peppers, which should be drained and diced.
Let the pasta cook. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. After this initial cooking period, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking. You’ll want to check and stir the pasta every few minutes. The pasta should finish cooking about 3-5 minutes longer than the package instructions indicate.
After the pasta is cooked to your liking, it’s time to finish and serve the dish. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 2 oz of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Allow these cheeses to melt into the pasta for 1-2 minutes, then serve the delicious mixture immediately while it’s still warm.
How To Make One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
To create One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta, begin by browning the sausage with onion and garlic. This base adds depth and flavor to your dish.
After browning, the addition of chicken broth and tomato basil sauce creates a rich, savory sauce. The half-and-half adds a creamy texture, enriching the overall dish. Stirring in the uncooked penne pasta allows it to absorb all the wonderful flavors as it cooks.
As everything simmers together, the roasted red peppers bring a sweet, tangy element that complements the sausage beautifully. Finally, melted cream cheese and parmesan cheese give it a luscious finish, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
How To Serve One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
When serving One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta, you can simply scoop it directly from the pot into bowls or onto plates. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a pop of color and freshness.
If you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it with a light salad and some crusty bread. A side of garlic bread would also be a fantastic addition, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
What To Serve With One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
This flavorful pasta dish pairs beautifully with several sides. A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
You might also enjoy a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a zesty touch. Garlic bread is another excellent accompaniment, as it complements the flavors and adds another layer of texture to your meal.
Lastly, consider some sautéed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to round out the meal with some healthy greens.
How To Store One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
Storing leftover One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can keep the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the pasta in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating the dish is easy; simply add a splash of broth while warm to restore some moisture before heating it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips To Make One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
For the best results, choose a high-quality ground Italian sausage for a fuller flavor. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes when browning the meat. It can elevate the dish and make it more exciting.
Don’t forget to stir the pasta regularly while it cooks. This will help prevent it from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly. Taste for seasoning before serving, and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.
Variation
You can easily customize One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta to your taste. If you want a vegetarian option, simply substitute the sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it altogether.
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. You can also switch out the type of pasta used—penne is just one option. Bowtie or fusilli work equally well.
Best Time To Make One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
However, it also works well for family gatherings or game day parties. The dish can be made ahead and simply reheated, making it a wonderful choice for entertaining.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
A common mistake when making this dish is overcooking the pasta. Pay close attention to the cooking time mentioned on the pasta package, as tossing it into the simmering sauce may cause it to cook faster.
Another mistake is not stirring the pasta enough while it simmers. This can lead to clumps and sticking. Make sure to stir regularly to keep everything even.
Lastly, some may skip the cream cheese and parmesan, thinking they are unnecessary. However, these ingredients create a creamy texture that makes the dish truly comforting and adds flavor.
Nutritional Notes
This pasta dish provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. While indulgent, consider using leaner sausage or lower-fat dairy options to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. Including vegetables enhances the nutrient content, making it a more balanced meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne pasta with bowtie, rotini, or any pasta of your choice. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the type of pasta.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it with a little broth or water para hacer it creamy again before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the half-and-half with a dairy-free milk option and omit the cream cheese and parmesan, or use dairy-free alternatives available.
Conclusion
One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that anyone can prepare easily. Its rich flavors and creamy sauce are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty dish to share with friends, this recipe fits the bill. Enjoy the delightful taste and simple preparation that makes this dish a family favorite time and time again.
One Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large, deep skillet or wide pot, add the ground Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the sausage as it cooks until browned and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add chicken broth, tomato basil pasta sauce, and half-and-half to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring to a rapid boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and stir in the uncooked penne pasta and diced roasted red peppers.
- Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking, checking and stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is cooked to desired doneness.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cream cheese and grated parmesan cheese.
- Allow the cheeses to melt into the pasta for 1-2 minutes, then serve warm.
