Craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Penne Pasta Smoked Sausage recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect for the whole family, offering a delightful blend of smoky sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal routine with this easy and healthy recipe!
Ingredients: What You'll Need
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for impromptu cooking.
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound smoked sausage (any kind you prefer – kielbasa, andouille, or Italian sausage work wonderfully), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions: Let's Cook!
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
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Sauté the sausage and vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Combine everything: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
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Add the pasta and finish: Stir in the cooked penne pasta and reserved pasta water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the pasta. Stir in the fresh parsley.
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Serve: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Taste test it frequently towards the end of the cooking time.
- Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is the star of this dish, so choose a variety you love.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Creamy version: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the smoked sausage with firm tofu, grilled halloumi, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Penne Pasta Smoked Sausage recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy!