Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta

Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and bursting with bold flavors. This dish brings together juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, tender pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce for a one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a busy weeknight dinner, prepping for a weekend gathering, or just craving a hearty pasta dish, this recipe delivers all the flavor of a gourmet meal with the simplicity of home cooking.

The secret to this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The rich creaminess of the sauce complements the smoky, savory sausage, while the sweetness of the peppers and onions adds a vibrant contrast. The pasta absorbs the creamy, flavorful sauce, making every bite irresistible. This recipe is also highly versatile—you can use your favorite type of sausage, adjust the spice level, or add extra vegetables to suit your taste.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to make this creamy, dreamy pasta step by step, explore variations to customize it, and learn tips to elevate your cooking. Get ready to create a pasta dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta will become one of your go-to recipes:

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce: The velvety sauce clings to every strand of pasta, making it indulgent yet approachable.
2. Bold Flavors: The combination of sausage, peppers, onions, and garlic creates a delicious symphony of flavors.
3. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
4. Customizable: Switch up the type of sausage, pasta shape, or add-ins to make it your own.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this dish is always a hit.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 ½ cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 530
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or farfalle)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Sausage and Peppers:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild, spicy, or chicken sausage), casings removed
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow or green), thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for added richness)

Optional Toppings and Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and release any flavorful bits.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for added creaminess.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Divide the Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta among bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Sausage

Italian sausage is the key to this dish’s bold flavor. Mild or spicy sausage works well, and chicken or turkey sausage can be used for a leaner option. The rendered fat from the sausage adds depth to the sauce.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and crunch to the dish. Red, yellow, and green peppers create a visually appealing mix, but you can use whichever colors you prefer.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.

Pasta

Sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle are ideal because they hold the sauce well. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Technique Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes cooking in the sauce, absorbing more flavor.
2. Deglaze the Pan: Use chicken broth to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the sausage in batches if needed to ensure it browns evenly.
4. Use Reserved Pasta Water: The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Baked Pasta: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden.
• One-Pan Dish: Cook the pasta directly in the skillet with the sauce and broth for a true one-pan meal.
• Soup Variation: Add more chicken broth and a can of diced tomatoes for a creamy sausage and peppers soup.

Additional Tips for Success

• Taste and Adjust: Season the sauce to taste before adding the pasta, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach, kale, or arugula at the end for added nutrients and color.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Sausage and Peppers Pasta: Use hot Italian sausage and double the red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Cheesy Sausage and Peppers: Top the finished dish with shredded mozzarella or provolone and broil until melted and bubbly.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store 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 milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

1. Allow the pasta to cool completely.
2. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
3. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding liquid to refresh the sauce.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Incorporate more vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, or peas, to boost the nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is versatile and works for a variety of occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with garlic bread and a simple salad for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Potluck: Serve the pasta in a large casserole dish for a crowd-pleasing contribution.
• Date Night: Pair with a bottle of red wine for a cozy, romantic dinner.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide, deep skillet is ideal for cooking the sauce and tossing the pasta.
• Wooden Spoon: For breaking up the sausage and stirring the sauce.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use precooked sausage?

Yes, simply slice or crumble the precooked sausage and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. Can I substitute the cream?

For a lighter option, use half-and-half, milk, or even unsweetened almond milk.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage, extra red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha.

5. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! Stir in grated Parmesan, pecorino, or mozzarella for an extra cheesy sauce.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh and toss it with the reheated sauce before serving.

7. What other vegetables can I use?

Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

8. Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try it today, and enjoy a plate of creamy, cheesy, deliciousness that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

Print