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Southern Dishes

One-Skillet Sausage Pasta Quick and Easy Dinner

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- 12 oz. penne pasta - 1 lb. Italian sausage (mild or spicy) - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes (with juices) - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme) - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness) - 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. For the sausage, choose a flavor you love. Spicy sausage gives a nice kick, while mild offers a gentler taste. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to the dish. When picking tomatoes, go for high-quality canned ones. They pack flavor and save time. Dried herbs work well, but fresh herbs elevate the taste. Lastly, use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and healthy boost. If you want a lighter option, swap the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based dish. If you don't have penne, any pasta like fusilli or rotini works great. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} Making One-Skillet Sausage Pasta is easy. You need to gather all your ingredients first. This helps keep things organized. You will cook everything in one skillet, making clean-up simple. Here are the key steps before cooking: - Chop the onion and bell pepper. - Mince the garlic. - Measure out the broth and diced tomatoes. - Gather your spices and cheese. 1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This takes about one minute. 2. Cook the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. 3. Brown the Sausage: Push the veggies to the side. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. 4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. The garlic should smell great. 5. Combine Ingredients: Now, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer. 6. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta. Make sure it’s under the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente. 7. Add Spinach: Mix in the chopped spinach and cook for 2 more minutes. This will wilt the spinach. 8. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. To help you follow along, I suggest taking pictures at each step. This way, you can see how the dish transforms. You could also record a short video of your cooking process. This makes it fun and helps others learn too. Share your results online! To cook pasta just right, follow these simple steps: - Use a large pot with plenty of water. - Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. - Stir the pasta often to prevent sticking. - Taste a piece a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. For this dish, use penne pasta. It holds sauce well and cooks evenly. To make your dish extra tasty, try these tips: - Use fresh garlic instead of minced. It gives a strong flavor. - Add a splash of white wine when cooking the sausage. This adds depth. - Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. You can also mix in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor. Sometimes things don't go as planned. Here are quick fixes: - If the pasta is too dry, add more chicken broth. Stir well. - If it's too soggy, remove the lid and let it cook longer. - For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes slowly. These tips will help you fix small problems and keep your dish delicious. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh garlic, spinach, and basil when possible. Adjusting Spice Level: If you're not sure about the spiciness, start with less red pepper flakes. You can always add more later to suit your taste. One-Pot Cooking: This recipe is designed to be made in one skillet, which makes cleanup easier. Just ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Perfect Pasta: To achieve al dente pasta, taste it a minute or two before the recommended time. It should be firm but not hard. {{image_2}} You can make this dish lighter with easy swaps. Use whole grain penne for more fiber. Swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to cut salt. Fresh spinach adds vitamins, but you can use kale instead for a deeper flavor. For a meatless version, skip the sausage entirely. Try adding more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can use a plant-based sausage for a similar taste. Toss in extra garlic and herbs to boost flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth. If you want to change up the protein, shrimp or chicken work well. Cook shrimp until pink, then add them in the last few minutes. For chicken, cube and sauté it until cooked through. Adjust cooking time based on your protein choice. Both options give a fresh twist to the dish. Store your One-Skillet Sausage Pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it. Reheat your pasta on the stove for the best taste. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This helps to keep it moist. Heat over medium heat, stirring often. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it from drying out. You can freeze One-Skillet Sausage Pasta too! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as described above. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Enjoy your easy dinner later! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage. For a plant-based option, try lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh. These options give you a similar texture and flavor. Just season them well with herbs and spices to keep the dish tasty. Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Bow tie, rotini, or macaroni work great here. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta shape. Make sure the pasta cooks until it is tender but still firm. One-Skillet Sausage Pasta lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Enjoy it again! In this post, I outlined key ingredients and provided cooking steps for your pasta dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and offered easy substitutions. You learned how to store leftovers and reheat them properly. My final thought is that cooking pasta can be simple and fun. With the right ingredients and a few tricks, you can enjoy a tasty meal any day. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and easy dinner that packs flavor? One-Skillet Sausage Pasta is your answer! This dish combines juicy sausage, tender pasta, and simple ingredients into one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how fast it comes together and how satisfying it is. Let’s dive in and discover how to whip up this delicious meal without the fuss. Your taste buds will thank you!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy One-Skillet Meal: This recipe simplifies dinner prep by combining everything into one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
  2. Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out the sausage for chicken or a meat alternative, and adjust the spice level with the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
  3. Packed with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is bursting with flavor and satisfying.
  4. Healthy and Nutritious: With the addition of spinach and the option to include whole grain pasta, this dish provides a balanced meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 12 oz. penne pasta

– 1 lb. Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

– 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes (with juices)

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness)

– 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Tips for Best Flavor

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. For the sausage, choose a flavor you love. Spicy sausage gives a nice kick, while mild offers a gentler taste. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to the dish. When picking tomatoes, go for high-quality canned ones. They pack flavor and save time. Dried herbs work well, but fresh herbs elevate the taste. Lastly, use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and healthy boost.

Recommended Substitutions

If you want a lighter option, swap the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based dish. If you don’t have penne, any pasta like fusilli or rotini works great. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

Making One-Skillet Sausage Pasta is easy. You need to gather all your ingredients first. This helps keep things organized. You will cook everything in one skillet, making clean-up simple. Here are the key steps before cooking:

– Chop the onion and bell pepper.

– Mince the garlic.

– Measure out the broth and diced tomatoes.

– Gather your spices and cheese.

Detailed Cooking Steps

1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This takes about one minute.

2. Cook the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant.

3. Brown the Sausage: Push the veggies to the side. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.

4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. The garlic should smell great.

5. Combine Ingredients: Now, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer.

6. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta. Make sure it’s under the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente.

7. Add Spinach: Mix in the chopped spinach and cook for 2 more minutes. This will wilt the spinach.

8. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Visual Cooking Process (Images or Video Suggestions)

To help you follow along, I suggest taking pictures at each step. This way, you can see how the dish transforms. You could also record a short video of your cooking process. This makes it fun and helps others learn too. Share your results online!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

To cook pasta just right, follow these simple steps:

– Use a large pot with plenty of water.

– Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.

– Stir the pasta often to prevent sticking.

– Taste a piece a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard.

For this dish, use penne pasta. It holds sauce well and cooks evenly.

Flavor Enhancements

To make your dish extra tasty, try these tips:

– Use fresh garlic instead of minced. It gives a strong flavor.

– Add a splash of white wine when cooking the sausage. This adds depth.

– Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

You can also mix in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are quick fixes:

– If the pasta is too dry, add more chicken broth. Stir well.

– If it’s too soggy, remove the lid and let it cook longer.

– For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes slowly.

These tips will help you fix small problems and keep your dish delicious.

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh garlic, spinach, and basil when possible.
  2. Adjusting Spice Level: If you’re not sure about the spiciness, start with less red pepper flakes. You can always add more later to suit your taste.
  3. One-Pot Cooking: This recipe is designed to be made in one skillet, which makes cleanup easier. Just ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Perfect Pasta: To achieve al dente pasta, taste it a minute or two before the recommended time. It should be firm but not hard.

Variations

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

You can make this dish lighter with easy swaps. Use whole grain penne for more fiber. Swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to cut salt. Fresh spinach adds vitamins, but you can use kale instead for a deeper flavor.

Vegetarian Option

For a meatless version, skip the sausage entirely. Try adding more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can use a plant-based sausage for a similar taste. Toss in extra garlic and herbs to boost flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth.

Different Protein Choices

If you want to change up the protein, shrimp or chicken work well. Cook shrimp until pink, then add them in the last few minutes. For chicken, cube and sauté it until cooked through. Adjust cooking time based on your protein choice. Both options give a fresh twist to the dish.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Store your One-Skillet Sausage Pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it.

Reheating Tips

Reheat your pasta on the stove for the best taste. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This helps to keep it moist. Heat over medium heat, stirring often. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it from drying out.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze One-Skillet Sausage Pasta too! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as described above. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Enjoy your easy dinner later!

FAQs

What can I substitute for sausage in this recipe?

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage. For a plant-based option, try lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh. These options give you a similar texture and flavor. Just season them well with herbs and spices to keep the dish tasty.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Bow tie, rotini, or macaroni work great here. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta shape. Make sure the pasta cooks until it is tender but still firm.

How long does One-Skillet Sausage Pasta last in the fridge?

One-Skillet Sausage Pasta lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Enjoy it again!

In this post, I outlined key ingredients and provided cooking steps for your pasta dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and offered easy substitutions. You learned how to store leftovers and reheat them properly. My final thought is that cooking pasta can be simple and fun. With the right ingredients and a few tricks, you can enjoy a tasty meal any day. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your ow

- 12 oz. penne pasta - 1 lb. Italian sausage (mild or spicy) - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes (with juices) - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme) - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness) - 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. For the sausage, choose a flavor you love. Spicy sausage gives a nice kick, while mild offers a gentler taste. Fresh garlic and onion add depth to the dish. When picking tomatoes, go for high-quality canned ones. They pack flavor and save time. Dried herbs work well, but fresh herbs elevate the taste. Lastly, use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and healthy boost. If you want a lighter option, swap the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based dish. If you don't have penne, any pasta like fusilli or rotini works great. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} Making One-Skillet Sausage Pasta is easy. You need to gather all your ingredients first. This helps keep things organized. You will cook everything in one skillet, making clean-up simple. Here are the key steps before cooking: - Chop the onion and bell pepper. - Mince the garlic. - Measure out the broth and diced tomatoes. - Gather your spices and cheese. 1. Heat the Skillet: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This takes about one minute. 2. Cook the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. 3. Brown the Sausage: Push the veggies to the side. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. 4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. The garlic should smell great. 5. Combine Ingredients: Now, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer. 6. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the penne pasta. Make sure it’s under the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente. 7. Add Spinach: Mix in the chopped spinach and cook for 2 more minutes. This will wilt the spinach. 8. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. To help you follow along, I suggest taking pictures at each step. This way, you can see how the dish transforms. You could also record a short video of your cooking process. This makes it fun and helps others learn too. Share your results online! To cook pasta just right, follow these simple steps: - Use a large pot with plenty of water. - Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. - Stir the pasta often to prevent sticking. - Taste a piece a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. For this dish, use penne pasta. It holds sauce well and cooks evenly. To make your dish extra tasty, try these tips: - Use fresh garlic instead of minced. It gives a strong flavor. - Add a splash of white wine when cooking the sausage. This adds depth. - Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. You can also mix in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor. Sometimes things don't go as planned. Here are quick fixes: - If the pasta is too dry, add more chicken broth. Stir well. - If it's too soggy, remove the lid and let it cook longer. - For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes slowly. These tips will help you fix small problems and keep your dish delicious. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh garlic, spinach, and basil when possible. Adjusting Spice Level: If you're not sure about the spiciness, start with less red pepper flakes. You can always add more later to suit your taste. One-Pot Cooking: This recipe is designed to be made in one skillet, which makes cleanup easier. Just ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Perfect Pasta: To achieve al dente pasta, taste it a minute or two before the recommended time. It should be firm but not hard. {{image_2}} You can make this dish lighter with easy swaps. Use whole grain penne for more fiber. Swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to cut salt. Fresh spinach adds vitamins, but you can use kale instead for a deeper flavor. For a meatless version, skip the sausage entirely. Try adding more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can use a plant-based sausage for a similar taste. Toss in extra garlic and herbs to boost flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth. If you want to change up the protein, shrimp or chicken work well. Cook shrimp until pink, then add them in the last few minutes. For chicken, cube and sauté it until cooked through. Adjust cooking time based on your protein choice. Both options give a fresh twist to the dish. Store your One-Skillet Sausage Pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you won’t forget when you made it. Reheat your pasta on the stove for the best taste. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This helps to keep it moist. Heat over medium heat, stirring often. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it from drying out. You can freeze One-Skillet Sausage Pasta too! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as described above. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Enjoy your easy dinner later! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage. For a plant-based option, try lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh. These options give you a similar texture and flavor. Just season them well with herbs and spices to keep the dish tasty. Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Bow tie, rotini, or macaroni work great here. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta shape. Make sure the pasta cooks until it is tender but still firm. One-Skillet Sausage Pasta lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Enjoy it again! In this post, I outlined key ingredients and provided cooking steps for your pasta dish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and offered easy substitutions. You learned how to store leftovers and reheat them properly. My final thought is that cooking pasta can be simple and fun. With the right ingredients and a few tricks, you can enjoy a tasty meal any day. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!

One-Skillet Zesty Sausage Pasta

A delicious and easy one-skillet pasta dish with zesty Italian sausage and fresh vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz. penne pasta
  • 1 lb. Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 unit onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 unit bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness)
  • 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste unit Salt and pepper
  • optional unit Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
  • Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Once simmering, stir in the penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  • Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to wilt.
  • Remove the skillet from heat, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken a little before serving.

Notes

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look or plate in bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. Enjoy with a side of garlic bread!
Keyword easy, one-skillet, pasta, sausage

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