Sausage and pepper penne pasta is a delightful fusion of savory smoked sausage and colorful bell peppers tossed in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe combines the classic tang of tomatoes with the smoky flavor of sausage and the crunch of veggies, all enveloped in perfectly cooked penne pasta. The harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, equally suitable for a quiet family dinner or a festive gathering.
The majority of the ingredients for this recipe are likely to be available in your kitchen pantry. However, if you don't have any smoked sausage, a trip to the deli section of your supermarket may be necessary. This recipe also makes use of three different colors of bell peppers, which not only adds a vibrant array of colors to your dish but also brings in their unique flavors. If you don't have all three colors on hand, feel free to use whatever bell peppers you have available.
Ingredients for Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Penne pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that holds up well to hearty sauces.
Coconut oil: Used for frying, it adds a subtle coconut flavor.
Smoked sausage: Adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
Onion: Provides a sweet and savory backbone to the dish.
Green bell pepper: Adds a mild, slightly bitter flavor.
Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet flavor.
Orange bell pepper: Adds a sweet and fruity flavor.
Mushrooms: They add a meaty texture and an earthy flavor.
Tomatoes: Provides the base for the sauce, adding sweetness and acidity.
Tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor in the sauce.
Garlic: Adds a pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens with cooking.
Garlic powder: Adds a concentrated garlic flavor.
Oregano: Offers a warm, slightly bitter taste.
Basil: Provides a sweet and savory flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
One reader, Felice Mcdonnell says:
This sausage and pepper penne pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so satisfying. The combination of the smoked sausage and the colorful bell peppers creates a burst of deliciousness in every bite. It's a definite winner for any pasta lover!
Techniques Required for Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
How to cook the penne pasta: Boil a large pot of lightly salted water and add the penne. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes.
How to sauté the sausage and vegetables: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir the sausage, onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
How to make the sauce: Stir diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into the vegetable mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
How to serve: Drain the cooked pasta and spoon it onto plates. Top with the sauce mixture.
How To Make Sausage and Pepper Penne
Using Farmer’s Sausage for this penne pasta recipe results in a smoky, flavorful, and low-key spicy. This is a perfect match with herbs and bell peppers.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2½cupsdry penne pasta
- 4½tspcoconut oil
- 1lbsmoked sausage
- 1onionsliced
- 1green bell peppersliced
- 1red bell pepper,sliced
- 1orange bell peppersliced
- 8ozmushroomssliced
- 14.5oztomatoesdiced
- 8oztomato sauce
- 1tspgarlicminced
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tsporeganodried
- 1tspbasildried
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspground black pepper
- ½tspred pepper flakes
Instructions
-
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes.
-
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and cook and stir sausage, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, and mushrooms until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
-
Stir diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, minced garlic, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into vegetable mixture.
-
Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
-
Drain pasta and spoon onto plates and top with sauce mixture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 466.64kcal
- Fat: 23.35g
- Saturated Fat: 8.89g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.93g
- Carbohydrates: 45.45g
- Fiber: 4.93g
- Sugar: 8.83g
- Protein: 20.52g
- Cholesterol: 52.92mg
- Sodium: 810.19mg
- Calcium: 43.85mg
- Potassium: 889.21mg
- Iron: 2.50mg
- Vitamin A: 124.58µg
- Vitamin C: 80.80mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
When sautéing the sausage and vegetables, ensure that you cut them into uniform sizes. This will not only ensure even cooking but also make your dish visually appealing. Additionally, when adding the spices, it's best to sprinkle them evenly over the mixture rather than dumping them in one spot to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish. Lastly, remember to stir your pasta occasionally while it's boiling to prevent it from sticking together.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Prep ahead: Chop and store the vegetables and sausage in advance to save time during the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, simultaneously prepare the sauce to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked smoked sausage to reduce cooking time and simplify the recipe.
Organize ingredients: Prior to cooking, gather and organize all the necessary ingredients and utensils to work efficiently.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the process more efficient.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta Recipe
dry penne pasta - Substitute with gluten-free penne pasta: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar flavor profile and works well for sautéing the ingredients.
smoked sausage - Substitute with vegan sausage: This substitution is ideal for those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their meat consumption.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish well.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can add a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers can provide a similar texture and flavor while adding a pop of color to the dish.
orange bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can offer a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well, making it a suitable substitute in the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a convenient alternative, especially when fresh tomatoes are not readily available.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for a chunkier texture in the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic paste: Garlic paste can be used as a time-saving alternative and offers a similar flavor to fresh garlic.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a savory flavor and aroma to the dish, similar to garlic powder.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can offer a slightly earthy and floral flavor, complementing the dish as a substitute for oregano.
basil - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous flavor, serving as a suitable substitute for basil.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a similar level of salinity and enhance the overall flavors of the dish.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and slightly different flavor profile, complementing the dish as a substitute for black pepper.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a mild heat and vibrant color to the dish, serving as a substitute for red pepper flakes.
Presenting Your Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sausage and pepper penne pasta, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Arrange the penne pasta neatly in the center and layer the sausage and pepper mixture around it, creating a visually striking composition.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Sprinkle the herbs over the pasta and around the edges of the plate to infuse the dish with a burst of fresh flavors and a pop of vibrant green color.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Elevate the presentation by drizzling a swirl of high-quality balsamic glaze over the plated pasta. The rich, dark glaze not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, creating a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for sophisticated and refined serving ware to complement the upscale presentation of the dish. Choose elegant porcelain plates or artisanal ceramic bowls to elevate the dining experience and showcase the sausage and pepper penne pasta in a luxurious light.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, aiming for symmetry and balance in the presentation. Arrange the sausage, peppers, and pasta thoughtfully, ensuring that each element harmonizes with the others to create a visually captivating and harmonious display.
Essential Tools for Making Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the penne pasta.
- Skillet: A skillet is used to cook the sausage, onion, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
- Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked penne pasta.
- Plates: Plates are used for serving the sausage and pepper penne pasta.
Storing and Freezing Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
- Allow the sausage and pepper penne pasta to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- If you plan to freeze the pasta, follow these steps for the best results:
- Divide the cooled pasta into individual serving-sized portions. This will allow you to thaw only what you need later.
- Place each portion into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible if using bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the pasta for up to 2-3 months. Longer storage may result in a slight loss of texture and flavor.
- To reheat the refrigerated pasta, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- For frozen pasta, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen:
- If thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated pasta.
- To reheat from frozen, place the frozen pasta in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high power, stirring every 1-2 minutes, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may be slightly softer after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should still be delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover sausage and pepper penne pasta to a large skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help moisten the pasta and prevent it from drying out. Heat the pasta over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the liquid has been absorbed. This method allows you to easily control the moisture level and texture of the reheated pasta.
Microwave method: place the leftover sausage and pepper penne pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the dish, and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave the pasta on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pasta, as it can become mushy or dry out quickly in the microwave.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover sausage and pepper penne pasta to an oven-safe dish, and add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top of the pasta to crisp up slightly.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover sausage and pepper penne pasta, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the pasta to the slow cooker, and add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help keep it moist. Cover the slow cooker and heat the pasta on low for 1-2 hours, or until it is heated through. Stir the pasta occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the sausage and pepper penne pasta before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may find that the flavors have mellowed or intensified during storage, so adding a pinch of salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes can help to revive the dish. If the pasta seems dry, you can also stir in a small amount of olive oil or butter to help moisten it and add richness.
Random Fact About Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Penne pasta is a type of pasta that originated in Italy and is characterized by its tubular shape. It is a versatile pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients, making it a popular choice for many pasta dishes.
Is Making Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?
This sausage and pepper penne pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of affordable ingredients like pasta, smoked sausage, and a variety of bell peppers and mushrooms makes it a budget-friendly option. The use of pantry staples like tomatoes and spices also adds to its affordability. With an approximate cost of $15, this recipe can easily feed a family of four. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its cost-effectiveness and delicious flavors.
Is Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sausage and pepper penne pasta recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes a variety of colorful bell peppers and mushrooms, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The tomatoes and tomato sauce offer additional nutrients like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as the smoked sausage, which is likely high in saturated fat and sodium. The coconut oil used for cooking also adds saturated fat to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the smoked sausage for a leaner protein option, such as chicken sausage or turkey sausage, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use a whole grain pasta instead of regular penne to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of coconut oil used in cooking, or replace it with a healthier oil like olive oil
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as zucchini, spinach, or eggplant, to boost the nutrient content and fiber
- Use low-sodium tomato sauce and diced tomatoes to help reduce the overall sodium content of the recipe
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt, such as fresh basil, parsley, or red pepper flakes
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Dish
The sausage and pepper penne pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of smoked sausage adds a rich and savory element, while the colorful bell peppers and mushrooms provide a vibrant and earthy contrast. The blend of herbs and spices creates a well-balanced and aromatic sauce that beautifully coats the penne pasta. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to please the palate.
Enhance Your Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta
Why trust this Sausage and Pepper Penne Pasta Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring smoked sausage and a colorful array of bell peppers and mushrooms. The use of tomatoes and tomato sauce provides a rich and savory base, while the blend of garlic, oregano, and basil infuses the dish with aromatic depth. The careful balance of spices and the cooking process ensures a harmonious and satisfying meal. Trust in the quality and expertise behind this recipe, and savor the delicious results!
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Penne Pasta with Spinach and Ricotta Recipe
Mexican Baked Penne Pasta Recipe
Penne Rosa Recipe (Noodles and Company Copycat)
Mixed Berry Pie Recipe
Rocky Road Fudge Recipe
Ultimate Carrot Cake Recipe
Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Avalanche Cookies Recipe
Cookie Dough Truffles Recipe
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe
Crisp & Juicy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
