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Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes that evoke a sense of home and tradition. From the rustic pastas of the North to the vibrant seafood dishes of the South, Italian food holds a beloved place in the hearts of many. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of this culinary tradition is the Italian Sausage & Pepper Pasta Skillet. This recipe is not only a celebration of Italian flavors but also a practical solution for busy weeknights, offering a delicious meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta Skillet

Experience the warmth of Italian cuisine with the Italian Sausage & Pepper Pasta Skillet, a quick and delicious weeknight meal ready in under 30 minutes. This dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers, onions, and flavorful herbs in a simple one-pan preparation. Packed with nutrients and bursting with taste, it promises to please your family while offering a comforting taste of home. Enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces of penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your preferred heat level)

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4-6 quarts of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.

    Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned and no longer pink in the center. If there is excess fat, drain it from the skillet.

      Add the Vegetables: Incorporate the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and the sliced onion into the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the garlic is fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and broth into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a light simmer. Allow it to cook for approximately 5 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.

          Add the Pasta: Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is well coated with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

            Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss lightly to combine. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

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

                - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls for an elegant touch, and consider adding an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves on top for a vibrant garnish. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil for added richness.