Introduction
This creamy Italian sausage pasta dish combines flavorful ingredients, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The roasted red bell peppers and Italian seasoning add a rich depth to the sauce, making it a perfect comfort food option. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
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: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This delicious pasta dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of creamy sauce, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs makes for a delightful meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the medium pasta shells according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain 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 the mixture is smooth. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mild Italian sausage (with casing removed) and diced sweet onion. Cook while stirring frequently until the sausage is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to crumble the sausage as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the sausage mixture, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour, allowing it to cook until it is lightly browned, approximately 1 minute.
Step 6: Combine with Sauces
Gradually whisk in the previously prepared red bell pepper mixture and the tomato sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it is reduced and slightly thickened. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 7: Add Pasta and Cream
Stir in the cooked pasta and heavy cream. Heat through for about 1-2 minutes, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 8: Incorporate Parmesan and Basil
Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture, stirring until it is melted, which should take about 2 minutes. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
Step 9: Serve the Dish
Serve the pasta mixture immediately while hot.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Substitutions
You can use turkey or chicken sausage as a healthier alternative to the mild Italian sausage if desired.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage substitute.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions. Drain well after cooking.
Blending Ingredients
Combine roasted red bell peppers and chicken stock in a blender until the mixture is smooth. Set aside for later use in the dish.
Sautéing Meat and Vegetables
Using a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and add mild Italian sausage and diced sweet onion. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent, stirring frequently and crumbling the sausage as it cooks.
Infusing Flavor
Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
Creating a Roux
Whisk flour into the sausage and onion mixture until it’s lightly browned, which helps to thicken the sauce later on.
Making the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the blended red bell pepper mixture and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in the cooked pasta and heavy cream, heating until everything is warmed through. Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Finishing the Dish
Incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture until it’s melted. Finish by stirring in chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute medium pasta shells with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. It’s best to consume them within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a lighter version, but the consistency may be slightly different.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of mild, or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This creamy pasta dish featuring roasted red bell peppers and Italian sausage is a delightful blend of flavors that can easily become a favorite. The combination of the savory sausage, rich cream, and the freshness of basil elevates the pasta shells into a hearty and satisfying meal. Enjoy the comforting essence of this recipe, which is perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Pasta with Spinach and Ricotta
Combine pasta shells with sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, and a touch of lemon zest for a light and refreshing dish.
Pasta Primavera
Toss cooked pasta with your favorite seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, finished with olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
Spicy Shrimp Pasta
Replace sausage with shrimp, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist on the cream sauce.
Pasta with Pesto and Grilled Chicken
Use pesto sauce instead of the red pepper mixture, add grilled chicken slices, and finish with a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch.
Macaroni and Cheese with Sausage
Transform the recipe to a classic mac and cheese by using elbow macaroni and allowing the cheese to melt while incorporating sausage for flavor.
One-Pot Pasta with Vegetables
Create a simpler version by cooking pasta in the same pot with vegetables, chicken stock, and cream for an all-in-one meal.
Stuffed Pasta Shells
Fill cooked pasta shells with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, then bake in marinara sauce topped with mozzarella cheese for a comforting dish.
