Introduction:
This Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet is an excellent choice for a cozy, flavorful dinner that takes less than 45 minutes to prepare. This one-skillet meal features meaty Italian sausage, tender pasta, a flavorful tomato-based sauce, and melting cheese, making it excellent for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Furthermore, you can add your favorite vegetables and cheeses to make it your own.
Ingredients for Main Dish:
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, whatever you want)
1 tablespoon of olive oil.
1 small, finely chopped onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 chopped bell pepper (red, yellow, or green).
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices
1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon of dry Italian seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Add salt and black pepper to taste.
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni are ideal)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese.
Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley is optional.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients.
Begin by gathering and preparing your components. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the bell pepper, and prepare the seasonings and liquid. This mise en place strategy guarantees a smooth cooking experience.
Step 2: Cook the sausage.
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once heated, crumble the Italian sausage into the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon, until browned and well done. If the sausage produces a lot of fat, drain it, but keep approximately a tablespoon in the pan for flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics and vegetables.
Place the diced onion and bell pepper in the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and simmer for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until aromatic.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir thoroughly to mix. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 5: Add Pasta
Stir in the uncooked pasta. Ensure that the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add some more broth or water to cover it. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to medium-low and covering the skillet.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, tossing periodically, until the pasta is cooked and has absorbed the majority of the liquid. Keep an eye on the skillet to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom, and adjust the heat as necessary.
Step 6: Add Cheese.
When the pasta is done and the sauce has thickened, evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. Cover the skillet again and simmer for a further 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
You may also broil the skillet for 2-3 minutes (if it’s oven-safe) to get a bubbling, golden-brown cheese coating.
Step 7: Garnish and serve.
Remove the skillet from the heat and top with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a blast of flavor and color. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. Scoop liberal amounts into bowls and serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success:
Choose high-quality sausages. Whether hot or mild, the sausage is the highlight of this dish. For the finest flavor, use fresh, well-seasoned Italian sausage from your local butcher or deli.
Use short pasta. Shapes such as penne, rotini, and rigatoni retain sauce nicely and cook evenly in the skillet.
Adjust the liquid as needed. Pasta absorbs liquid when cooked. If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is cooked, add a drop of stock or water.
Do not overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente for the greatest texture, especially when it softens slightly even after you remove the skillet from the heat.
Add vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and even kale can be used to increase nutrition and diversity.
Variations: 1. Creamy Version.
For a rich, creamy variation, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream or cream cheese once the pasta has finished cooking.
2. Vegetarian option
Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or a combination of mushrooms and lentils. Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Spicy Kick.
To achieve a strong, powerful flavor, use hot Italian sausage and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
4. Cheese Lovers’ Delight.
For more flavor, combine provolone, fontina, and sharp cheddar cheeses. You can also stack ricotta for a lasagna-like texture.
5. Gluten-free.
Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti, and make sure the sausage is gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating Leftovers:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight jar for up to four days.
Reheating:
Individual pieces can be reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes while covered. To make bigger pieces, reheat in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to soften the sauce.
Freezing:
This recipe can be frozen, however the pasta’s texture may soften slightly upon warming. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions:
Crispy, buttery garlic bread works nicely to mop up the sauce.
A basic arugula or Caesar salad provides freshness and balance.
Wine Pairing: To compliment the flavorful sausage and tomato sauce, choose a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti, Zinfandel, or Merlot.
Final Thoughts:
This Italian Sausage Pasta Skillet is a reliable option for anyone who enjoys robust, comforting Italian flavors without the hassle of several pots and pans. It’s filling, family-friendly, and infinitely flexible, making it a staple in any busy home cook’s repertoire.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a dinner party, this recipe will dazzle. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs and a good sprinkle of Parmesan!
