Sausage & Peppers Pasta Skillet – A $5 Dinner That Feels Gourmet

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Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Sausage & Peppers Pasta Skillet—a dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta into one satisfying, one-pan meal. Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe comes in at just around $5 per serving, making it a budget-friendly choice for busy families and foodies alike.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a gourmet-feeling meal for just about $5 per serving.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet.
• Flavor-Packed: Sautéed Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a zesty tomato sauce create layers of flavor.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap sausage varieties or add extra veggies to suit your taste.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed; see Budget-Friendly Sausage Tips)
• 2 bell peppers (any color, sliced into strips)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional for extra heat)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the skillet).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Sausage & Vegetables

1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage; cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and 1/2 cup chicken broth.
2. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking

1. Add the partially cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.
3. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well incorporated.

Step 5: Plate & Garnish

1. Remove the skillet from heat.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

💰 Cost Breakdown (Estimated for 4 Servings)

Prices are approximate and may vary by location. Use store brands and bulk buying for further savings!

Additional Tips & Variations

Cooking & Storage Tips

• Meal Prep: This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
• Pasta Texture: If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more broth or reserved pasta water.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add extra veggies such as mushrooms or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in extra cheese or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a richer taste.

Presentation & Serving Suggestions

• Garnishing: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes and fresh herbs adds color and extra flavor.
• Serving Ideas: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra gourmet touch, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even penne works well. Adjust cooking times as necessary.

Q: What if I want a spicier dish?
A: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Q: How do I ensure the pasta doesn’t overcook?
A: Under-cook the pasta by 1-2 minutes, as it will finish cooking in the skillet with the sauce.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dish ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

For more budget-friendly cooking tips, visit Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time & Money on Family Dinners.

Related Recipes & Internal Links

Explore more delicious, budget-friendly meals on KateFi.com:

• One-Pot Spicy Cajun Chicken & Rice – Fast, Cheap & Delicious!
• Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken – Sweet, Spicy & Under $5!
• Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff – A Rich, Creamy Dinner on a Budget

For additional inspiration on budget cooking, check out The 50 Grocery Challenge – Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage & Peppers Pasta Skillet is proof that you can create a gourmet-feeling dinner on a shoestring budget. With hearty Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta in a zesty tomato sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies both your palate and your wallet. Perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves good food at a great price.

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