Turkey Sausage and Pepper Pasta
You’re looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal, and this Turkey Sausage and Pepper Pasta is the perfect comfort food dinner recipe. It’s packed with flavor, simple to prepare, and will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Turkey Sausage: Use sweet or mild Italian turkey sausage. You can also use chicken sausage.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of colors (red, yellow, orange) adds visual appeal and flavor. Any color works.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are ideal, but diced tomatoes can also be used for a chunkier sauce.
- Pasta: Penne, rotini, or ziti are excellent choices. Use your favorite short pasta shape.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey sausage (casings removed if links)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 pound pasta, uncooked
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or Dutch oven, large pot
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any drippings in the pan.
Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it softens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell peppers, continuing to cook for another 5-7 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp.
Simmer the Sauce
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package directions in a separate large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta directly to the simmering sauce, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This makes a fantastic comfort food dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of milk for a creamier sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 10 minutes for a cheesy baked pasta.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Turkey Sausage and Pepper Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine.
What kind of turkey sausage should you use?
Use ground Italian turkey sausage, either sweet or mild, for the best flavor in this comfort food dinner recipe.
Can you add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots would be delicious additions. Add them when you sauté the bell peppers.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your preference for heat.
What is the best way to prevent pasta from sticking together?
Ensure you use a large pot with plenty of salted water, stir the pasta frequently during cooking, and avoid overcooking it.
Can you use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works perfectly and adds a nutritional boost to this comfort food dinner recipe.
