Sausage Bell Pepper Penne

This Sausage and Bell Pepper Penne brings comforting flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum reward. Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and tender penne pasta come together in a rich tomato sauce for a meal that is both savory and satisfying. It is perfect for busy nights when you still want something special on your plate.

The first time I made this dish I was amazed by how quickly it disappeared from the table. Now it is my family’s answer to those hectic evenings when everyone is hungry and we want something cozy.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: brings a sturdy shape that holds up well to chunky sauce Look for bronze cut if possible for better sauce cling
• Italian sausage: guarantees bold flavor Choose mild for gentle heat or hot for a little kick Pick a sausage with plenty of visible herbs
• Olive oil: provides a smooth base Look for extra virgin for extra richness
• Red and yellow bell peppers: offer sweetness and color Pick firm unblemished peppers for the best crunch
• Onion: adds subtle depth Choose one that feels heavy for its size
• Garlic: gives aromatic punch Fresh cloves really make a difference
• Crushed tomatoes: form the sauce body Go for a high quality brand without added sugar
• Pasta cooking water: helps bind the sauce The starch makes everything silky
• Salt and pepper: finish the seasoning Taste as you go
• Fresh basil or parsley: add brightness Always use fresh for garnishing
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings salty finish Parmigiano Reggiano is my favorite for depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Fill a large pot with water and add a good handful of salt Bring to a rolling boil Add penne and cook until still slightly firm Usually this takes around ten to twelve minutes Be sure to scoop out some pasta water before draining Set both pasta and water aside

Cook the Sausage:

Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat Add the sausage broken into small pieces with clean hands or a spoon Let cook six to eight minutes until deeply browned Stir occasionally to make sure all sides are cooked When done transfer sausage to a plate lined with paper towel but keep a little fat in the pan

Sauté the Bell Peppers and Onion:

Add the sliced bell peppers and chopped onion to the sausage fat in the pan Cook around five to seven minutes over medium heat Stir every so often The peppers should soften but keep a slight bite and the onion will look clear Add the garlic at the end and let cook just one or two minutes so it smells strong but does not brown

Create the Sauce:

Put the sausage back in with the vegetables Pour in the crushed tomatoes Stir well Add reserved pasta water slowly until you get the thickness you like Let everything simmer gently for five to ten minutes Keep the heat low enough so nothing scorches Taste and add salt and pepper

Combine with Pasta:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet Use tongs or a big spoon to toss so all pieces are glossy and coated in sauce Let sit over low heat one or two minutes to let everything blend

Serve:

Move to bowls Finish with fresh basil or parsley and a heavy sprinkle of Parmesan Serve right away for the best texture

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My favorite part of this recipe is the aroma when the garlic hits the pan with the sausage and peppers It always makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready This pasta has turned lots of busy evenings into occasions where we all slow down together

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool before transferring to an airtight container Store in the fridge up to three days It reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce Pasta does soak up some sauce over time so add a little tomato or water if it looks dry

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter twist Whole wheat or gluten free pasta works if you have dietary needs Swap in orange or green peppers if that is what you have Plain canned tomatoes can work in a pinch just break them up a bit

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a green salad tossed in vinaigrette and some crusty bread on the side A glass of red wine rounds things out beautifully For a fresh touch try serving with a wedge of lemon to brighten up the flavors

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Cultural Context

This recipe is a riff on classic Italian American comfort dishes combining hearty pasta and sausage with vibrant bell peppers It’s simple enough for weeknights but has flavors that remind me of festive family gatherings and cozy trattorias The key is letting each ingredient shine in every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage work well in place of classic Italian sausage, depending on your preference.

→ What pasta can I substitute for penne?

Rigatoni, ziti, or farfalle are all good alternatives. Choose a shape that holds up to chunky sauces.

→ How spicy is the dish?

This depends on your sausage choice. Use hot Italian sausage for spice, or mild for a gentler flavor. Adjust to taste.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?

Adding pasta water helps the sauce coat the penne and improves the consistency. It’s a helpful, but optional, step.

→ What can I use for garnish?

Fresh basil, parsley, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhance flavor and add color to the finished dish.