Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? You’ve found it! This One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta packs a punch of flavor and heat, while being simple to make. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a hearty meal in just one pot. Whether you’re a busy parent or a novice cook, this dish makes dinner stress-free and delicious. Let’s dive in and start cooking!
Ingredients
To make One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta, you need the following ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The spicy Italian sausage brings a bold flavor. The onion and garlic add depth and aroma. Red bell pepper adds sweetness and color. Crushed tomatoes form a rich base, while chicken broth gives the pasta a savory touch. The pasta absorbs all the flavors, making every bite delicious. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness, and basil gives a fragrant finish. Lastly, grated Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and richness when served.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sauté the sausage until it is browned, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the sausage adds flavor and depth to the dish. After browning, it’s important to drain any excess grease. This helps keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Adding the Vegetables
Next, add 1 medium onion, diced, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 diced red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens them and enhances their flavors. If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can sauté them for a shorter time.
Incorporating Main Ingredients
Now, stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. This spice brings heat to the dish, so adjust it to your taste. After mixing it well, pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, which helps meld all the flavors together.
Cooking the Pasta
Once boiling, add 12 ounces of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook and absorb some liquid. Be sure to check the doneness and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Final Seasoning
After the pasta is cooked, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Then, stir in ½ cup of chopped fresh basil. This adds a lovely aroma and fresh flavor to your dish. You can serve it hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Practices
Using a large pot is key for even cooking. It allows all the ingredients to heat up properly. When you sauté the sausage, ensure it browns well. This adds depth to the flavor. Stirring the pasta often prevents it from sticking together. This simple act will keep your dish smooth and enjoyable.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the taste, try adding more spices. A dash of smoked paprika can add a nice touch. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley also work great. You can switch up your cheese toppings too. Instead of Parmesan, try crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella. Each choice will give a new flavor twist.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Different pasta types need different cooking times. If you use thin pasta, check it after 8 minutes. For thicker shapes like rigatoni, stick with the full simmer time. Always ensure your pasta is al dente. It should have a slight bite. This texture makes every bite satisfying and keeps your dish from becoming mushy.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can change the protein in this dish easily. Chicken or turkey sausage works well. Both give a lighter taste while still packing flavor. Simply swap the spicy Italian sausage for your choice. You can also try vegetarian options. Plant-based sausage gives you a similar taste and texture without meat. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun.
Pasta Types
Pasta can change the whole vibe of your dish. You can use fusilli or spaghetti instead of penne or rigatoni. Fusilli holds sauce well, while spaghetti offers a classic feel. If you’re gluten-free, there are many options too. Gluten-free pasta is now easy to find in stores. Just pick your favorite type and follow the same cooking steps.
Adding Vegetables
Adding veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. Seasonal veggies like zucchini and spinach are great choices. Zucchini adds a nice crunch, and spinach gives a fresh taste. You can toss them in when you add the other vegetables. This way, they cook just right and blend well with the pasta. Incorporating greens makes your meal healthier and more colorful.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. It’s best to let the pasta cool before sealing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting mushy. In the fridge, it lasts about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date you made it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s easy! Portion it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the pasta will expand when frozen. The pasta can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and tasty.
Meal Prep Ideas
This pasta is a great choice for meal prep. You can make a big batch on the weekend for busy weeknights. Portion it into single servings for easy lunches or dinners. Use clear containers so you can see what’s inside. This way, you’ll always have a delicious meal ready to go!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta ahead of time. Prepare it fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth if needed to bring back moisture.
How do I modify the spice level?
To change the spice level, adjust the red pepper flakes. For less heat, use half a teaspoon. For more heat, add more flakes. You can also swap spicy sausage for mild sausage. This way, you control the spice based on your taste.
What can I serve with One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta?
This pasta dish pairs well with simple salads. A Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad works great. Garlic bread is also a popular side. You can serve it with a light, zesty salad to balance the dish’s rich flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping. Prepare the dish and let it cool. Portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners. It keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely. Just make sure to store it properly to maintain flavor.
This blog post covered a delicious and simple recipe for One Pot Spicy Sausage Tomato Pasta. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips to enhance flavor. I shared ways to modify the dish with different proteins and vegetables. Proper storage tips ensure your meal stays fresh, whether in the fridge or freezer. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty meal that suits your needs. Enjoy cooking and making this dish your own!
