Name: One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta: A Fast, Flavorful Feast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 medium onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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As a passionate home cook, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve turned to my trusty One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta for a quick weeknight meal. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the fact that everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. I love how the savory Italian sausage mingles with the sweet bell peppers and onions, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a hearty, delicious meal on the table that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:

12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni): Choose your favorite shape for a delightful bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: This will help brown the sausage and add flavor.
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed): The star of the dish, providing rich flavor.

1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and color.
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Complements the red pepper beautifully.
1 medium onion, sliced: Brings depth to the dish.

3 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic kick.
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices: Adds moisture and tang.
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The cooking liquid that brings everything together.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): A fresh touch to finish off the dish.

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): Adds a creamy, salty finish.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious meal that’s sure to please!

How to Prepare One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta

Making One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Sauté until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the onion. Sauté these colorful veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), the chicken or vegetable broth, and the Italian seasoning. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

Step 5: Final Touches

Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir everything to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots.
Flavor Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, bell peppers, and spices creates a deliciously satisfying dish.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tips for Success

To make your One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta even better, here are some pro tips:

Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, go for mild Italian sausage. For a kick, use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Mix in More Veggies: Feel free to toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it’s al dente. It will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat.

Garnish Generously: Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese elevate the dish, so don’t skimp on these toppings!

With these tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not just good, but truly unforgettable!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g

Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this hearty meal knowing it’s packed with flavor and nutrition!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I often hear about One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta:

Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, and thyme. It’ll still taste fantastic!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta, this One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta can easily fit into a gluten-free diet.

How can I make it spicier?
For a kick, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust to your heat preference!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your One Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta is simple! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just cover the dish to retain moisture.