Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta

The aroma of sautéing peppers and Italian sausage fills the kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction in each bite. Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, bringing a burst of flavors that perfectly meld together. This dish is not only hearty but it also showcases how simple ingredients can create a flavorful symphony.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering with friends. It can be prepared in advance and stored for a convenient meal later in the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of sweet caramelized peppers and savory sausage creates a delightful flavor contrast.
• A silky sauce coats each piece of pasta, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• It’s a one-pan meal, making for easy cleanup after a satisfying dinner.
• Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious pasta dish:

For the Pasta

• 8 oz dry short-cut pasta, like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli

For the Sausage & Sauce

• ½ lb mild or spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste, divided
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• ½ sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 2 medium red or yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1½ tsp light brown sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt, to taste

For Serving

• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Toasted breadcrumbs, for serving (optional)

Use ground turkey for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Swap Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey.
• Use other pasta shapes like shell or fusilli.
• Replace balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar.
• Omit sausage for a vegetarian version.

How to Make It

Here’s how to create this delightful dish in just a few simple steps:

Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Add the sausage and cook until browned and just cooked through.

Caramelize the Vegetables

2. Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until caramelized.
   Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the Onions and Peppers

3. In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
   Add the onions and bell peppers. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring often, until softened and caramelized.

Combine Ingredients

4. Stir in the remaining 1 tbsp tomato paste, garlic, brown sugar, oregano, and balsamic vinegar.
   Season with kosher salt and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until jammy.

Cook the Pasta

5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in generously salted boiling water 1 minute less than the package instructions.
   Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Mix It All Together

6. Add the pasta and cooked sausage back into the skillet with the peppers.
   Pour in ¼ cup reserved pasta water, stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
   Add more pasta water as needed for a silky texture.

Serve Immediately

7. Serve immediately, topped with toasted breadcrumbs if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, due to pasta texture.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure to brown the sausage well for deeper flavor.
• Don’t rush the caramelization of the peppers for sweetness.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Use freshly minced garlic for a more robust flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh side salad for balance.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an elevated experience.
• Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.