Introduction

Sausage and Peppers Penne Pasta is a vibrant, comforting dish that perfectly combines savory Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, and al dente penne pasta in a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even meal prepping for the week. The colorful peppers not only add sweetness and texture but also make this dish visually appealing, while the Italian sausage infuses it with a robust, savory depth.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, slightly spicy, and deeply comforting. The combination of juicy sausage and tender, caramelized bell peppers brings incredible flavor to every bite. The penne pasta serves as the perfect canvas to absorb the rich tomato sauce, making each forkful satisfying. It’s a one-pot meal in spirit (even if the pasta is cooked separately), and it comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. The dish is also very versatile—you can make it as simple or as gourmet as you like.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it perfectly balances bold flavors with ease of preparation. The sweet peppers complement the spiced sausage, and the tomato-based sauce ties everything together with a comforting, hearty finish. It’s ideal for people who love Italian-American classics but want something homey, colorful, and satisfying. This dish is sure to impress family and friends and is even better as leftovers—the flavors deepen overnight.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: 40–45 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: Approximately 500–550 per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main course / Pasta / Comfort food

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Sausage:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Peppers & Sauce:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage until browned and cooked through; remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked sausage and penne pasta; toss to combine.
6. Serve hot with Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Drain and set aside. Drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add Italian sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Peppers & Onions

1. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers.
2. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Sauce

1. Return cooked sausage to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated in sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and extra flavor.

How to Serve

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• For a heartier meal, top with extra sausage slices or roasted vegetables.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Slice the peppers thinly for faster cooking and better caramelization.
• Use sweet Italian sausage for milder flavor or spicy sausage for a kick.
• For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce at the end.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
2. Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup cream cheese or heavy cream to make a creamy tomato sauce.
3. Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella or provolone before serving.
4. Baked Version: Top the pasta mixture with mozzarella and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes for a baked pasta dish.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pasta and sausage mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for draining pasta

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work well too.

Q2: Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, use hot Italian sausage or increase the red pepper flakes.

Q3: Can I cook this all in one pan?
Yes, but it’s best to cook the pasta separately to ensure it stays al dente.

Q4: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, about 4–5 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped, can replace the canned crushed tomatoes.

Q5: Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare sausage and peppers ahead and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Conclusion

Sausage and Peppers Penne Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful, and hearty meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender peppers, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich tomato sauce makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. It’s versatile, customizable, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping. Every bite delivers a balance of bold flavors and satisfying textures—a must-try for anyone who loves Italian-American cuisine.