Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

Introduction

Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. It combines spicy Italian sausage, tender penne pasta, and fresh vegetables, all bathed in a savory tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave quick and delicious comfort food.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it is easy to prepare and has a wonderful balance of flavors. The combination of sausage, pasta, and vegetables makes it a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less cleanup for you! Whether you are cooking for family or having friends over, this dish is sure to please everyone.

How to Make Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

Making Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal that your loved ones will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving about a tablespoon of the drippings in the pan.
3. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked penne pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

Serve the Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta hot, right from the skillet. You can add extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top for a beautiful presentation. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

• For a milder flavor, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy.
• Add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can easily make this dish using whole wheat penne for a healthier option. You can also substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A2: You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta.

Q3: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta in an airtight container. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Enjoy making this delicious Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

Italian Sausage and Penne Pasta

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• Author: olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and hearty dish combining spicy Italian sausage, penne pasta, and fresh vegetables in a savory tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving a tablespoon of drippings.
3. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked penne pasta and grated Parmesan cheese, tossing to coat. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Can be frozen for 2-3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Italian pasta, sausage pasta, comfort food, quick dinner