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Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta

Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta: A Creamy Twist on Comfort

Discover the rich flavors of Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta in this comforting and quick dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces short pasta (penne or rigatoni) Use for best texture
For the Sauce
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Choose mild or spicy
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can swap with half-and-half or milk
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes Fresh diced tomatoes can substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Adjust to taste
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
For the Vegetables
  • 3 cups bell peppers Mix of colors for sweetness
  • 1 medium onion Chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
Optional Toppings
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes For heat
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil) For garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, crumbling it as it cooks for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring until softened and aromatic.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add drained pasta to skillet, tossing to coat in sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with herbs or extra cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 540mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Can freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

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