Name: Sausage Pasta Skillet: Quick Comfort Food for Any Night
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (For sautéing vegetables and sausage); 1 pound Italian sausage (Can be substituted with chicken or turkey sausage); 1 medium onion (Chopped); 3 cloves garlic (Minced); 1 medium red bell pepper (Sliced); 1 medium yellow bell pepper (Sliced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (For flavor); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional); 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (For cooking pasta and sauce); 1 can diced tomatoes (Undrained); 12 ounces uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta (Adjust cooking time based on pasta used); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Can be substituted with Pecorino Romano); 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley (For garnish)

As I stirred the sautéing vegetables in my skillet, a delightful aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sunlit Italian terrace. I could almost hear the laughter of family gatherings echoing in my ears, all brought to life by this One-Pan Sausage Pasta Skillet. Easy and comforting, this dish marries juicy sausage with tender pasta simmering in a rich tomato broth, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With just one pan to clean, you can whip up this Italian-inspired feast in just about 30 minutes, allowing you to savor the flavors without the fuss. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your favorite sausage or pasta variations, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a plateful of goodness. Are you ready to turn your weeknight dinners into a culinary journey? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Sausage Pasta Skillet a Must-Try?

Quick to prepare: This recipe makes it super easy to put a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes!

One-pan simplicity: Forget the hassle of multiple pots—this dish comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Flavor-packed: With juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato broth, every bite bursts with satisfying Italian flavors.

Customizable: Use any sausage or pasta shape you love, or add fresh veggies like spinach to enhance nutrition and taste.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty skillet dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Sausage Pasta Skillet Ingredients

• Get ready to create deliciousness with these simple ingredients!

For the Skillet

Olive oil – For sautéing vegetables and sausage, adds fruity richness.
Italian sausage – Provides hearty flavor and protein; can be substituted for chicken or turkey sausage for lighter options.
Onion – Adds sweetness and aroma; a base flavor for the dish.
Garlic – Infuses the skillet with savory warmth.
Red bell pepper – Offers crunchy texture and natural sweetness.
Yellow bell pepper – Brightens the dish with additional sweetness.
Dried oregano – Adds traditional Italian flavors to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes – Optional for heat; adjust based on spice preference.
Chicken or vegetable broth – Liquid for cooking pasta and creating the sauce.
Diced tomatoes (undrained) – Forms the base of the sauce, adding acidity and vibrancy.
Uncooked pasta (penne or rigatoni) – Hearty carb base that absorbs the sauce. Adjust cooking time based on pasta used.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings for flavor balance.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds creamy, savory depth; can be substituted with Pecorino Romano.
Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish, adding color and freshness.

Embrace the joy of cooking with this Sausage Pasta Skillet, as you explore the rich flavors and heartwarming comfort of this Italian dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add sliced or crumbled Italian sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. The sausage should have a golden crust. Remove it from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings for the vegetables.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir often to prevent the garlic from burning, ensuring a sweet aroma fills your kitchen as the base flavor develops for the Sausage Pasta Skillet.

Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers
Next, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the peppers are slightly softened but still crisp. Their vibrant colors will brighten the dish and enhance the flavors in your one-pan meal, balancing the richness of the sausage.

Step 4: Season the Vegetables
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and optional red pepper flakes, if desired. Stir for about 1 minute until the herbs are fragrant and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step infuses your Sausage Pasta Skillet with an authentic Italian flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth along with a can of undrained diced tomatoes. Stir to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. As the broth heats up, the tomatoes will mingle with the spices and vegetables, creating a delicious sauce for the pasta.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Once simmering, add 12 ounces of uncooked penne or rigatoni pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta is done when it’s al dente, absorbing the flavors from the sauce while becoming tender and perfect for the Sausage Pasta Skillet.

Step 7: Combine the Ingredients
After the pasta reaches the right texture, return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring it into the mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This step melds the ingredients together, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.

Step 8: Add Creaminess
Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Allow it to blend smoothly into the sauce, enriching the flavors and giving the dish a wonderful creamy texture. The cheese will thicken the sauce and enhance its comforting nature, making your Sausage Pasta Skillet even more delightful.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the Sausage Pasta Skillet straight from the skillet for a casual family-style meal, or plate it individually to impress your guests. Savor the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish!

Sausage Pasta Skillet Variations

Get ready to sprinkle your own twist on this delightfully comforting dish!

Spicy Sausage: Swap Italian sausage for spicy sausage to heat things up, adding a zesty kick that ignites your taste buds.
Turkey Sausage: Use turkey sausage instead of traditional pork for a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle. Each swirl and curve brings a unique bite to your skillet.
Extra Veggies: Add fresh spinach or zucchini during the cooking process for a nutritional boost and vibrant color, making your dish even more appealing.
Creamy Upgrade: Mix in a splash of heavy cream before serving to transform your sauce into a richer, velvety delight.
Cheese Variety: Substitute Parmesan with crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that adds depth to every bite.
Herb Infusion: Try throwing in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano in addition to the basil, creating layers of aromatic flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute pasta with gluten-free alternatives to make this dish accessible for everyone at the table.

With these exciting variations, you can personalize your Sausage Pasta Skillet every time you make it. And if you’re interested in exploring other delicious one-pan meals, be sure to check out my Pancake Sausage Mini and Sausage Egg Breakfast for more culinary inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Sausage Pasta Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables (onions and bell peppers) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the sausage up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, ensuring it’s ready to go when you’re short on time. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sausage and veggies in the skillet, add the broth and diced tomatoes, and then stir in uncooked pasta, allowing it to cook according to the recipe’s instructions. This way, you’ll have a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!

Expert Tips for Sausage Pasta Skillet

Even Sausage Cooking: Ensure even cooking by slicing the sausage uniformly; this helps achieve that delicious golden crust without burning.
Pasta Cooking Time: If you’re using gluten-free pasta, remember to check the package instructions for precise cooking times to maintain perfect texture.
Flavor Infusion: Let the Sausage Pasta Skillet rest for a few minutes before serving; this allows all those rich flavors to meld beautifully for a more satisfying meal.
Cheese Alternatives: Don’t have Parmesan on hand? Try Pecorino Romano or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option without compromising flavor.
Veggie Additions: For extra nutrition, toss in some fresh spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking time, adding both color and health benefits to your dish.

What to Serve with Sausage Pasta Skillet

Elevate your dining experience by complementing the rich flavors of this One-Pan Sausage Pasta Skillet with thoughtful sides and beverages.

Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted, buttery slices of garlic bread are ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce while adding a comforting crunch.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted zucchini, asparagus, or carrots not only brighten your plate but also add a healthy and tasty element to the meal.
Herbed Rice: Light and fluffy herbed rice is a wonderful base, providing a nice balance to the flavors of the pasta, especially for those looking for extra carbs.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, enhances the Italian flavors, making every bite feel upscale and welcoming.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, lemon sorbet makes for a delightful dessert to cleanse your palate after the savory richness of the main dish.
Fresh Basil: Consider serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top; it adds a vibrant burst of flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy, cheesy polenta offers a comforting, satisfying side that harmonizes beautifully with the Sausage Pasta Skillet’s satisfying textures.
Brewed Iced Tea: A glass of lightly sweetened iced tea can be a refreshing beverage option that balances the meal without overwhelming its flavors.

Storage Tips for Sausage Pasta Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve flavor and texture.

Freezer: For make-ahead meals, freeze individual portions of your Sausage Pasta Skillet in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen portions, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Serving: For the best taste experience, enjoy the dish fresh, but know it can also be a convenient option for busy days!

Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage is best for Sausage Pasta Skillet?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use Italian sausage, which can be either mild or spicy depending on your preference. You can also try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure that whichever sausage you choose is evenly sliced or crumbled for even cooking.

How long can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat for the best texture and flavor. If you find that the sauce has thickened too much, a splash of broth can help revive it.

Can I freeze Sausage Pasta Skillet?
Yes, you can! For make-ahead meals, portion the Sausage Pasta Skillet into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What if my pasta turns out mushy?
Very! To avoid this, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely. If you’re using a different type of pasta, refer to the package instructions for accurate cooking times. Stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks is also key to prevent it from sticking, which can lead to a mushy texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, just be mindful of its cooking time. Each gluten-free pasta brand has slightly different instructions, so check the package for the best results. You can still enjoy all the delicious flavors of your Sausage Pasta Skillet while accommodating dietary needs!

Is this dish suitable for kids or individuals with allergies?
Very! The Sausage Pasta Skillet is a crowd-pleaser, and you can accommodate various allergies. Just opt for allergy-friendly sausages, or swap in vegetables that your family enjoys. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for potential allergens like gluten or dairy if you have sensitivities.