For a richer flavor, consider using homemade tomato sauce. Fresh basil can be substituted for dried basil; use about 1 tablespoon chopped. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference. If you don't have heavy cream, half-and-half or even a dollop of ricotta cheese can be used for a similar creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms.
Sweet and Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME25 mins
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TOTAL TIME35 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS28
A vibrant pasta dish where the sweetness of bell peppers and tomatoes dances with the fiery kick of Italian sausage and crushed red pepper, all embraced by a creamy, comforting sauce.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate65 g
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Cholesterol57 mg
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Fiber7 g
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Protein22 g
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Saturated Fat12 g
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Sodium718 mg
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Sugar13 g
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Fat29 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepBring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water. (8 minutes)
02
StepIn a heavy skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add bell pepper strips, onion strips, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. (5 minutes)
03
StepAdd the Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then cover and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. (15 minutes)
04
StepRemove the sausage links from the skillet and slice them diagonally into coin shapes. Return the sausage slices to the skillet.
05
StepSeason the sauce with dried basil, granulated garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly. Gently mix in the heavy whipping cream and reserved pasta water. (2 minutes)
06
StepCover the skillet and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 8 minutes, further enriching its flavor. (8 minutes)
07
StepDivide the cooked rotini among serving plates and generously top with the luscious sweet and spicy sausage and pepper sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Lorine Johnston
Jun 27, 2025I added a little bit of pesto to the sauce and it was amazing!
Billy Hegmann
Jun 25, 2025The instructions were clear and easy to follow, even for a beginner cook like me.
Kamille Kling
Jun 5, 2025I made this for meal prep and it was delicious all week long. The flavors just got better over time.
Claire Weissnat
May 29, 2025This was a huge hit with my family! The perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
Wilfredo Oreilly
Apr 7, 2025The spiciness was just right for us, but I appreciate the tip about reducing the red pepper flakes if needed.
Horacio Carter
Mar 7, 2025I used gluten-free pasta and it turned out great!
Bradley Collier
Feb 20, 2025So easy to make and packed with flavor. Definitely adding this to my regular rotation.