Description
Sweet Pepper & Sausage Pasta is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and caramelized bell peppers in a delightful, easy-to-make meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this savory pasta comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone craving a comforting dinner. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients, enhanced by balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, creates a flavor profile that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ lb mild or spicy Italian sausage
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ sweet onion
- 2 medium red or yellow bell peppers
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1½ tsp light brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 8 oz dry short-cut pasta (rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
- Kosher salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste until caramelized, then set aside.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers in the same skillet with olive oil for about 15–20 minutes until softened.
- Add remaining tomato paste, garlic, brown sugar, oregano, and balsamic vinegar; season with kosher salt and cook until jammy.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Mix the drained pasta and cooked sausage into the skillet with vegetables; stir in reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg