Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Chicken Sausage

The creamy roasted red pepper sauce, infused with smoky paprika and Parmesan cheese, brings a delightful richness to every bite of this pasta dish. The tender chicken sausage adds a hearty element that balances perfectly with the sauce.

This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers restaurant-quality flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and blended into a purée
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the roasted red pepper purée and cook for 2 minutes. Lower the heat and mix in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. In a separate skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices over medium heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, sauce, and sausage in the skillet. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Toss until well-coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Inspiration

This recipe draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, where simple, high-quality ingredients are combined to create bold and comforting flavors. The use of roasted red peppers as a base for the sauce brings a smoky, slightly sweet depth that has been cherished in Mediterranean cooking for centuries. Pairing it with chicken sausage makes it a modern twist, offering a leaner, protein-packed option while retaining hearty flavors.

The creamy texture of the sauce, combined with the pasta and sausage, is a nod to classic comfort food dishes like Alfredo and carbonara but with a unique twist, thanks to the roasted red peppers. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves fusion cuisine that bridges tradition and contemporary taste.

Cooking Tips

1. Roasted Red Peppers: While jarred roasted red peppers are convenient and time-saving, you can roast fresh red bell peppers at home for an even richer flavor. Simply place whole peppers under a broiler until charred, peel off the skins, and blend.
2. Pasta Choices: Although penne is recommended, this dish works beautifully with other types of pasta like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Use what you have on hand or experiment with different shapes.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. This pairs well with the creamy and smoky flavors of the dish.
4. Cheese Variations: Parmesan is the traditional choice, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can add a slightly sharper flavor if you prefer.
5. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid using the microwave, as it may cause the cream sauce to separate.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this pasta with a fresh arugula salad topped with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
• Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir. The creamy sauce complements the wine’s acidity beautifully.
• Topping Ideas: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving to elevate the dish.

Nutritional Insights

This recipe strikes a balance between indulgence and nourishment:

• Protein-Packed: The chicken sausage provides a good amount of lean protein, making the dish filling and satisfying.
• Vitamin Boost: Roasted red peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a healthy twist to the creamy pasta.
• Portion Control: While it’s easy to indulge, serving this pasta with a side of vegetables can make it a more balanced meal.

Origins of Roasted Red Pepper Sauces

Roasted red peppers have long been a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Their smoky, slightly sweet flavor adds depth to a variety of dishes, from spreads like romesco sauce in Spain to roasted pepper dips in Turkey. The creamy pasta sauce in this recipe builds upon that tradition by blending roasted red peppers with cream, cheese, and spices to create a velvety, irresistible base for the dish.

Adding chicken sausage introduces a hearty, protein-rich component, making it a satisfying one-pot meal. This combination of traditional flavors and modern convenience embodies how classic recipes can evolve to suit contemporary tastes.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Flavor Balance: The roasted red pepper sauce offers a delightful mix of sweetness, smokiness, and creaminess, while the chicken sausage adds savory, umami-rich notes. The touch of smoked paprika enhances the overall flavor profile.
2. Ease of Preparation: Using jarred roasted red peppers and pre-cooked chicken sausage makes this recipe accessible even on busy weeknights.
3. Customizable: This dish can be easily tailored to suit various dietary needs or ingredient availability, making it versatile for all types of home cooks.

Ingredient Spotlight

1. Roasted Red Peppers: These peppers bring a vibrant color and naturally sweet flavor. They are also high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making the dish not just tasty but nutritious.
2. Chicken Sausage: A leaner alternative to pork sausage, chicken sausage provides protein while keeping the dish lighter. You can choose spicy, garlic, or herb-flavored varieties for added complexity.
3. Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the sauce, tying all the flavors together.
4. Pasta: Penne is used for its tubular shape, which holds onto the sauce beautifully. However, fusilli, rigatoni, or even pappardelle can be great substitutes.

Pairing Suggestions

1. Bread: Serve with garlic knots, crusty sourdough, or focaccia to soak up the creamy sauce.
2. Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
3. Beverages: A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint can be refreshing alongside this dish.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

1. Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s a game-changer for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and ensuring it clings perfectly to the pasta.
2. Sautéing Aromatics: Gently sautéing onions and garlic before adding the sauce enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
3. Final Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil, along with a dusting of Parmesan, elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor.

Fun Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken sausage with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
2. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
3. Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or use a spicy chicken sausage for a fiery kick.

Nutritional Highlights

• Caloric Content: Each serving of this pasta is hearty yet reasonable in calories, making it an indulgence that doesn’t break the calorie bank.
• Micronutrient Boost: The roasted red peppers provide a good dose of vitamins A and C, while the chicken sausage contributes iron and protein.
• Balanced Meal: Combining carbs, protein, and fats, this recipe makes for a well-rounded and filling meal.

Kitchen Hacks for Busy Cooks

1. Make Ahead: The roasted red pepper sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before tossing it with pasta.
2. One-Pot Method: For less cleanup, cook the chicken sausage in the same pan as the sauce, deglazing with a splash of pasta water.
3. Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half of the sauce for a quick future meal.

Conclusion

This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Chicken Sausage is a perfect blend of comfort and bold flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its creamy, smoky sauce and hearty sausage create a satisfying, versatile dish that’s easy to customize.

Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen. I’d love to hear your thoughts or any creative twists you add — share your experience in the comments!