Introduction
This delightful recipe is a creamy pasta dish with a twist, combining the rich flavors of roasted red bell peppers and mild Italian sausage. It’s perfect for a comforting family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. With its hearty ingredients and flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 ounces medium pasta shells
– 1 (16-ounce) jar roasted red bell peppers, drained
– ¾ cup chicken stock
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12 ounces mild Italian sausage, casing removed
– ½ medium sweet onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
– ½ cup heavy cream
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
– 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This recipe is easy to follow and will yield a comforting and creamy pasta that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the medium pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bell Pepper Mixture
In a blender, combine the drained roasted red bell peppers and chicken stock. Blend until smooth and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Onion
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onion to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until the sausage is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remember to crumble the sausage as it cooks. If there is excess fat, drain it from the skillet.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning into the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 5: Incorporate the Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour to the mixture in the skillet. Continue to cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to brown lightly.
Step 6: Combine Red Bell Pepper Mixture and Tomato Sauce
Gradually whisk in the blended red bell pepper mixture along with the canned tomato sauce. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce is reduced and slightly thickened.
Step 7: Add Pasta and Heavy Cream
Gently stir in the cooked pasta and heavy cream into the skillet. Heat the mixture through for about 1-2 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 8: Mix in Parmesan and Basil
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it is melted, which should take about 2 minutes. Then fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the dish immediately while hot.
Notes
Cooking Tip
Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute mild Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a healthier option, or use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestion
Pair the dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cooking pasta according to package instructions ensures it reaches the desired texture and doneness before draining.
Blending Ingredients
Combining roasted red bell peppers and chicken stock in a blender creates a smooth sauce base that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Searing Sausage
Heating olive oil in a skillet and adding sausage and onion allows the meat to brown, which adds depth to the dish. Crumbling the sausage while cooking ensures even cooking and texture.
Sautéing Aromatics
Stirring in garlic and Italian seasoning after the sausage is browned infuses the dish with fragrant flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
Creating a Roux
Whisking in flour until lightly browned forms a roux, which acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a richer consistency.
Simmering Sauce
Gradually whisking in the blended red bell pepper mixture and tomato sauce, then bringing it to a boil before reducing the heat for simmering helps to meld the flavors and thicken the sauce over time.
Incorporating Cream
Stirring in heavy cream allows the sauce to achieve a creamy texture, balancing flavors while adding richness.
Final Touches
Incorporating Parmesan until melted and adding fresh basil at the end brightens the dish and adds layers of flavor just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute medium pasta shells with other types like penne or rigatoni, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian option for the sausage?
Yes, you can replace mild Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them just before serving for best results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but the texture and flavor may vary.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of roasted red bell peppers and Italian sausage, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese enhances the texture, while fresh basil adds a burst of freshness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a comforting, flavorful experience that is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
You can experiment with different pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli for a varied texture.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a vegetarian option, consider substituting the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for robust flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add spinach or kale to the dish for added nutrients and color.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for an additional layer of flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair this dish with a side salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.
More recipes suggestions and combination
You can enhance the dish further by topping it with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.
