Description
Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of the Italian Sausage and Colorful Pepper Pasta Bake. This recipe beautifully marries the spiciness of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped in a lusciously creamy cheese sauce. It’s an ideal dish for those who appreciate a hearty, comforting meal suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound penne, cavatappi, or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound hot Italian sausage or hot turkey sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 1 yellow bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 1 orange bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spicy)
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 15 oz. can fire roasted tomatoes with juices
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (granulated, cube, or base)
- 1 tsp EACH dried oregano, dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp EACH dried thyme, salt, pepper
- 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half (or milk whisked with 1 ½ tsp cornstarch)
- 6 ounces freshly grated mild Gouda (may substitute cheddar)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the Sausage
- Sauté Vegetables
- Make the Sauce
- Combine and Serve
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes