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When it comes to weeknight dinners that deliver both flavor and convenience, few dishes can compete with a creamy sausage and bell pepper pasta skillet. This delightful recipe combines tender penne pasta with savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it also embodies the essence of a one-skillet meal, making cleanup a breeze and allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying a hearty meal with loved ones.

Creamy Sausage & Pepper Pasta Skillet

Discover the ultimate weeknight solution with this creamy sausage and bell pepper pasta skillet! Combining tender penne, savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce, this one-pan wonder is both delicious and easy to make. Perfect for busy evenings, it requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to focus on enjoying a hearty meal with loved ones. Learn how to create this comforting dish that balances flavor and convenience while impressing your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225g) penne pasta

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed

1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is completely browned and cooked through. If there's excess grease, you can drain some off.

      Sauté the Vegetables: To the same skillet with the sausage, add the diced onion along with the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers. Sauté the mixture for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened. Add in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, and carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to blend everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld.

          Incorporate the Cheeses: Gradually sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has turned creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece of pasta is generously coated with the creamy sausage and pepper sauce. Heat the combined dish for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through.

              Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. For a final touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you wish. Serve hot and enjoy your delightful Creamy Sausage & Bell Pepper Pasta Skillet!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings