Spicy Sausage & Roasted Pepper Pasta is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines spicy Italian sausage with roasted red peppers and pasta, all tossed in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade, sliced)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
• Fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Timing

Making the Spicy Sausage & Roasted Pepper Pasta takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
2. Incorporate Peppers and Tomatoes: Add the sliced roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

1. Mix in Cream: If using, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Add Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious Spicy Sausage & Roasted Pepper Pasta!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Spicy Sausage & Roasted Pepper Pasta (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	550
Protein	25g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	60g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Pasta Variations: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
• Herb Enhancements: Fresh oregano or thyme can add additional flavor.

Conclusion

Spicy Sausage & Roasted Pepper Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the heat of spicy sausage with the sweetness of roasted peppers. This dish is sure to become a favorite for its bold flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy this delightful recipe!