Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's surprisingly quick and easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Bratwurst and Pasta combines the savory richness of German bratwurst with the comforting simplicity of pasta, creating a delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious alternative to typical pasta dishes. It's a winner for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bratwurst sausages (choose your favorite kind!)
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bratwurst: Remove the bratwurst from their casings if desired. You can leave them whole, slice them into coins, or crumble them – it's entirely up to your preference! I prefer slicing them into 1/2-inch thick rounds for a nice balance of texture.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Bratwurst: Add the sliced bratwurst to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a deeper flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Combine and Finish: Stir in the heavy cream (if using) into the simmering sauce. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the bratwurst sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a more substantial and healthy meal. Sauté them with the onions and garlic.
- Different sausages: Feel free to experiment with other types of sausages, such as Italian sausage or kielbasa. The flavor profile will change, but the deliciousness remains.
- Creamy or not: The heavy cream is optional. If you prefer a lighter sauce, simply omit it.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 (depending on sausage and pasta type)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy and delicious Bratwurst and Pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. It's perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. Enjoy!