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To create a truly memorable creamy sausage and pepper pasta skillet, it's essential to carefully select your ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Creamy Sausage & Pepper Pasta Skillet

Discover the joy of cooking with this creamy sausage and pepper pasta skillet, a delightful one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. This rich dish features tender pasta coated in a luxurious creamy sauce, complemented by Italian sausage and vibrant bell peppers. It's easy to prepare and customizable with various vegetables and spice levels. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this recipe will become a staple in your home!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casing removed (choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.

    Brown the Sausage: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue to sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes until the sausage is well-browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, keeping the rendered fat in the skillet.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Introduce the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, sautéing them for 4-5 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and everything is well combined.

        Prepare the Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to incorporate. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes, where it will start to thicken. If it gets too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the browned sausage back to the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss gently until everything is thoroughly combined. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, enhancing the flavor. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste.

            Garnish and Serve: Once all ingredients are well-mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pasta hot in bowls, topped with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an added touch of flavor.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4