Turkey Sausage and Pepper Pasta Toss

• 8 oz turkey sausage, casing removed
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
2. 2 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
3. 3 Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. 4 Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, cooking until vegetables are tender.
5. 5 Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. 6 While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
7. 7 Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it to the skillet.
8. 8 Toss pasta with the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
9. 9 Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• Colander

Variations

• Add a can of white beans for extra protein.
• Substitute zucchini for some of the bell peppers for a lower-carb option.

Substitutions

• Use Italian turkey sausage for extra herbs and spices.
• Substitute chicken sausage if turkey isn't available.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Steamed broccoli
• A glass of Chianti

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding the sausage.
• Add a handful of fresh basil leaves before serving for a fresh twist.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain sauciness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad.
• Serve with warm, crusty bread.

FAQ