This Creamy Sausage and Red Pepper Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of Italian sausage with sweet red bell peppers and a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. Garnished with fresh herbs, this pasta dish will become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Creamy Sausage and Red Pepper Pasta
- 12 ounces of your favorite pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions for Creamy Sausage and Red Pepper Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
2. Brown the Sausage
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (with casings removed) and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Once the sausage is browned, add the thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the red pepper is slightly tender.
- If you want to add some spice, sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes at this point.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Stir in the ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sausage and red pepper sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Sausage Options: You can use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor or opt for sweet Italian sausage if you prefer a milder taste.
- Pasta Choices: Any pasta works well in this dish, such as penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
- Adjusting the Heat: The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat to the dish. You can increase or decrease the amount based on your spice preference, or leave them out entirely for a milder flavor.
Variations for Creamy Sausage and Red Pepper Pasta
1. Vegetable Additions
- Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and texture.
2. Lemon and Herb Twist
- Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a bright, zesty contrast to the creamy flavors. Pair with extra fresh herbs like thyme or oregano.
3. Tomato Cream Sauce
- Add 1 cup of canned diced tomatoes to the sauce along with the heavy cream for a delicious tomato-based cream sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream to make a lighter version. However, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce.
3. Can I freeze this pasta dish?
While the pasta can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerate leftovers for a few days.
A Creamy and Flavorful Pasta Dish
This Creamy Sausage and Red Pepper Pasta is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of rich, satisfying flavors. The combination of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a creamy Parmesan sauce makes this pasta dish a winner for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Serve it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for the perfect meal!
