Can I use chicken sausage instead of beef or Italian sausage?

Yes, chicken sausage works wonderfully in this recipe. It’s lighter but still flavorful, making it a great choice for those who prefer a leaner protein.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with your favorite vegetarian or plant-based sausage. The sauce’s flavor will remain rich, and the peppers provide plenty of sweetness.

How far in advance can I prepare Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta?

You can cook the sauce up to two days in advance and refrigerate it. Simply reheat and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne and rigatoni are perfect because they hold the sauce well, but you can also use fusilli or shells. To explore another one-pot option, visit One-Pot Stove Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese .

Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta

Name: Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni); 1 lb smoked or Italian sausage, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta combines smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce in one comforting, one-pan dinner. This Italian-inspired recipe is hearty, quick to make, and perfect for busy weeknights. The balance of savory and sweet flavors makes this pasta dish a wholesome favorite for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni)
1 lb smoked or Italian sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides.
Add chopped onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until onions are translucent and peppers are tender.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10–12 minutes to blend flavors.
Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss well until coated.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Add grated cheese if desired.

Notes

For a creamy version, add a splash of cream or mascarpone to the sauce. You can also mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies. Chicken or turkey sausage can be used as a lighter alternative, and plant-based sausage works well for a vegetarian option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 55mg