Simple Italian Sausage Pasta Recipe for a Quick and Delicious Meal

Easy Italian Sausage Pasta A Delightful Recipe for Home Cooks

When it comes to comfort food, Italian cuisine often takes the cake. One dish that perfectly embodies the warmth and heartiness of Italy is Easy Italian Sausage Pasta. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish will surely become a staple in your home.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare Easy Italian Sausage Pasta, you'll need the following ingredients

- 12 oz of pasta (either penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti) - 1 lb of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped - 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes (with their juices) - 1 can (8 oz) of tomato sauce - ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 teaspoon of dried oregano - 1 teaspoon of dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons of olive oil - Fresh basil (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

1. Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

2. Prepare the Sausage In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate but leave any rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté Vegetables In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then stir in the red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine with Pasta Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring that all the pasta is coated in the delicious sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

6. Serve Once everything is combined and heated, serve the pasta hot. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that authentic Italian touch.

Tips for Customization

One of the best things about Easy Italian Sausage Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences

- Add Vegetables You can throw in zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions and peppers. - Swap the Protein If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well too. For a vegetarian alternative, use meatless sausage or omit the sausage entirely and add more vegetables or beans for protein. - Creamy Variation For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving.

Conclusion

Easy Italian Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also allows for endless customization based on your dietary needs and taste preferences. So next time you're in a dinner rut, turn to this comforting, aromatic dish that brings the essence of Italy to your plate. Enjoy each bite and savor the love that goes into making this easy home-cooked meal!