Easy Weeknight Sausage & Pepper Pasta

Ingredients:

– 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)

– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 green bell pepper, sliced

– 1 small onion, sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes

– 1/2 cup tomato sauce

– 1 tsp Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

– Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.

4. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Combine: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss to combine. Add the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated in the sauce.

6. Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and top with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4.”