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In the world of quick and comforting meals, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of a pasta skillet. This Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all in one easy-to-make dish. With its vibrant colors and robust flavors, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity; it allows for minimal cleanup while delivering maximum satisfaction. In this article, we will explore the recipe in detail, provide insights into its ingredients, and discuss variations and serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet

Explore the comforting flavors of a Savory Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet, a one-pan delight perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Featuring al dente penne pasta, rich Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and delicious spices, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also minimizes cleanup. With options for customization, including gluten-free pasta and vegetarian alternatives, it’s a versatile recipe that will satisfy everyone at your table. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (choose sweet or spicy, casings removed)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (your choice of red or green), diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (including juices)

2 cups fresh spinach

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Brown the Sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break the sausage into small pieces. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the sausage is nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the bell pepper has softened.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and add the cooked penne pasta along with the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

          Add Spinach: Fold in the fresh spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until it wilts down. If you enjoy a bit of spice, this is the moment to sprinkle in the optional red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper according to your taste.

            Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines seamlessly into the dish.

              Serve: Transfer the pasta skillet to a serving dish and finish it off with fresh basil leaves as a garnish. For an extra cheesy experience, consider serving with additional Parmesan on the side.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | 4 servings