If you're on the hunt for a quick, delicious meal that brings the heart of American comfort food to your table, look no further than this Smoked Sausage and Pepper Pasta Skillet! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish bursting with flavor, featuring smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta. This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a delightful weeknight dinner that will have your family asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until edges are slightly crispy and browned.
- Remove sausage from skillet and set aside on a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and develop light caramelization.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring pasta is evenly coated with sauce and ingredients.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While any pasta will work, consider using rotini or penne for better sauce adherence. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. The more colorful your dish, the more appealing it will be!
- Don’t Skip the Drippings: The drippings left from cooking the sausage are packed with flavor. Make sure to sauté your vegetables in the same skillet to absorb all those delicious juices.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garnish for Greatness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of grated Parmesan cheese on top can elevate your dish visually and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can easily be doubled for meal prep. Just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
