Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? Look no further than this Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta One Pot Dish! This easy recipe combines savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese, all cooked in one pot for a stress-free meal. With just a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that your family will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
For this dish, I love using penne pasta because it holds sauce well. Italian sausage adds a rich, savory flavor. I choose a mix of bell peppers for color and sweetness. The onion and garlic bring a nice aroma and depth to the dish.
Dairy Ingredients
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
The heavy cream makes it rich and creamy. I use mozzarella cheese for its melty goodness. The Parmesan cheese adds a sharp flavor that balances everything.
Seasonings & Extras
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Chicken broth provides a base for cooking the pasta. Olive oil helps cook the sausage and veggies. I love using Italian seasoning for that classic taste. Finally, fresh basil leaves give a pop of freshness when serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
First, grab a large pot and pour in one tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it nice and browned.
Next, add one chopped onion and three minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. The onions should turn translucent, and the kitchen will smell amazing.
Adding Vegetables and Pasta
Now, it’s time to add color to the dish. Stir in one sliced red bell pepper, one sliced yellow bell pepper, and one sliced green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes. They should start to soften but still have a bit of crunch.
After that, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Then, add 12 ounces of penne pasta and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is gone.
Finishing Touches
Once the pasta is cooked, turn the heat to low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Then, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and creamy.
Finally, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of your Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture
To get the right pasta texture, check the cooking time. Penne pasta cooks well in about 12 to 15 minutes. Test it a minute or two early. You want it al dente, firm yet tender.
For melting cheese smoothly, add it at the end. Turn the heat low after stirring in the heavy cream. Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan gradually. This helps avoid clumps and makes it creamy.
Flavor Enhancements
Want more flavor? Try adding spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. They can give a nice kick or depth to your dish. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also boost taste.
Choosing different types of sausage can change the dish too. Spicy sausage adds heat, while sweet Italian sausage gives a milder flavor. You could also try chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Serving Recommendations
For side dishes, a simple green salad works great. It adds freshness and balance to the meal. Garlic bread is another favorite. It complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
When it comes to wine, a light red like Pinot Noir pairs well. It has a nice fruitiness that balances the rich flavors of the dish. A white wine, like Chardonnay, also works if you prefer white.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change up the recipe. If you need gluten-free pasta, use it instead of penne. This swap works well with any sauce. You can also switch the protein. Instead of Italian sausage, try chicken or turkey. Both options taste great and make the dish lighter.
Vegan Options
If you prefer a vegan dish, plant-based sausage is a great choice. Brands like Beyond Meat or Field Roast work well. For cheese, use dairy-free cheese made from nuts or soy. These alternatives melt nicely and keep the dish creamy and rich.
Flavor Profiles
Want some heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also throw in more veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms add color and nutrition. Mixing different flavors keeps the dish exciting and fresh. Experiment with what you love!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure they seal tightly to keep out air. Store your leftovers in the fridge. They will last for about 3 to 4 days.
Reheating Tips
Reheating pasta can be tricky. The best method is to use the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Stir gently over low heat until warm. You can also use the microwave. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This helps prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
If you have extra pasta, freezing is a great option. First, let it cool completely. Then, scoop portions into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for about 2 to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta?
Making Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta takes about 30 minutes total.
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cooking time: 20 minutes
You can get all your ingredients ready in about 10 minutes. Then, cook the dish for around 20 minutes. This gives you a quick and tasty meal!
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use various types of pasta.
Some good options include:
– Rigatoni
– Fusilli
– Farfalle
Feel free to pick your favorite shape. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can easily make this dish healthier with a few simple swaps.
– Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
– Choose turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
– Replace heavy cream with a lighter option like Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
These changes will lower the calories and fat while keeping the taste delicious!
This recipe for Cheesy Sausage Pepper Pasta is simple and delicious. We explored main ingredients like sausage, pasta, and fresh vegetables. I shared step-by-step cooking methods, with tips to enhance flavors and texture. You learned how to modify the recipe for dietary needs or preferences. Remember, proper storage and reheating tips can keep your meal fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure! With practice, you’ll make this dish a family favorite.
