Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy sausage with sweet peppers, onions, and a rich, creamy sauce. This hearty pasta dish is full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy sauce beautifully coats the pasta, while the sausage and peppers add depth and texture, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Prepare the pasta:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Cook the sausage:

2. Brown the sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the vegetables:

3. Cook the peppers and onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Make the creamy sauce:

4. Add the liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Season the sauce: Stir in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the pasta and sausage:

6. Add the sausage and pasta: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Finish and serve:

7. Add Parmesan and garnish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes:

• Sausage Variations: You can use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version of the dish. For a spicier kick, try using spicy Italian sausage.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
• Make-Ahead: The creamy sausage and peppers pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.

Conclusion:

Creamy Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory sausage and sweet peppers, creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or serving guests, this dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Make it today for a delicious, creamy pasta dinner that will quickly become a favorite!