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Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes that have a way of bringing people together. From the warm embrace of a hearty lasagna to the satisfying simplicity of a risotto, Italian food speaks to the heart and soul. Among its many delightful offerings, one dish stands out for its robust flavors and ease of preparation: Sizzling Sausage & Pepper Skillet Pasta. This dish exemplifies what makes Italian cooking so beloved – it is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence.

Sausage & Pepper Skillet Pasta

Discover the joy of cooking with this Sizzling Sausage & Pepper Skillet Pasta, perfect for a hearty weeknight meal. This Italian-inspired dish brings together succulent sausage, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, all simmered to create a rich flavor profile. Quick and easy to prepare, it allows for a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Ideal for busy families, this recipe celebrates fresh ingredients and delivers a comforting culinary experience that everyone will adore.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of the pasta water for later, and set aside.

    Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Crumble the Italian sausage directly into the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is evenly browned and fully cooked. Transfer the browned sausage to a plate and keep warm.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it doesn't burn.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the chicken broth, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, about 3-5 minutes.

          Mix in the Pasta: Once the mixture is bubbly and well combined, gently fold in the drained pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce. If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

            Serve: Dish out the sizzling sausage and pepper pasta into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor before serving.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4

                Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the dish in shallow bowls, creating a nest of pasta topped with vibrant peppers and sausage. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a few extra basil leaves for color.