Why Make This Recipe
Sausage Pasta Skillet is one of those comforting meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish allows you to serve up something hearty and satisfying without spending all evening in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family to eat their veggies without a fuss.
How to Make Sausage Pasta Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (or turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage)
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (use any color your family prefers)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (feel free to substitute with vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Once cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté them until they are softened, which will take about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds a lovely aroma, so don’t skip this step!
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
Add the pasta to the skillet. Reduce the heat, and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally until the pasta is cooked al dente—this should take about 10 to 12 minutes.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine everything well.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
How to Serve Sausage Pasta Skillet
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can always serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread if you’re feeling indulgent. Kids love it because it’s easy to eat and full of flavors they enjoy. You can also let everyone top their bowls with Parmesan cheese for a fun, personalized touch.
How to Store Sausage Pasta Skillet
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you find the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and is dry, just add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Tips to Make Sausage Pasta Skillet
- For a little extra spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes when you sauté the veggies.
- If you’re short on time, pre-chop your veggies or buy pre-chopped bell peppers and onions from the store.
- This dish is very forgiving—feel free to toss in any leftover veggies you have on hand, like spinach or zucchini.
- You can make it a meatless meal by simply omitting the sausage or using mushrooms as a hearty substitute.
Variation
Try using different types of pasta or swap the Italian seasoning for a different blend, like taco seasoning for a fun twist! You can even switch out the bell peppers for other vegetables such as broccoli or green beans, depending on what your family enjoys.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can cook the entire dish ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The flavors may deepen after sitting, making it even more delicious.
2. What can I use instead of pasta?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using quinoa or rice. Just adjust the cooking time based on the grains you choose.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the sausage and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or beans for protein. Make sure to choose vegetable broth as your base.
Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful! Sausage Pasta Skillet is a fantastic way to get dinner on the table quickly while making your family feel loved and nourished. Enjoy the process!
Print
Sausage Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A comforting one-pan meal featuring Italian sausage, pasta, and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (or turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage)
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until cooked al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
This dish is very forgiving; feel free to add leftover veggies or make it meatless by omitting the sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Sausage Pasta, One-Pan Meal, Weeknight Dinner, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe