CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself short on time but still craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal, CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET is about to become your new weeknight hero. This vibrant, one-pan wonder combines juicy Italian sausages, tender penne pasta, and a medley of colorful peppers and tomatoes, swirled together with just the right amount of herbs and a peppery kick. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness, all ready in just 20 minutes—making it just as at home on a lazy Sunday as it is after a busy day at work. Every bite delivers layers of comfort and satisfaction, and you’ll be amazed at just how easy it is to toss together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET is handpicked for maximum flavor and ease, turning humble pantry staples into a truly special meal. These ingredients work together to create a colorful skillet with robust, layered taste—nothing extraneous, just pure goodness.

• Italian sausage: Robust and juicy, the star of the skillet, infusing everything with meaty flavor.
• Penne pasta: The classic tube shape catches the savory sauce and adds satisfying bite.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a gorgeous pop of color—slice thin for even cooking.
• Red onion: Brings mild sharpness and turns silky-soft as it cooks.
• Garlic: Four cloves give a fragrant, punchy base—don’t hold back!
• Salt & fresh cracked pepper: Essential for balancing and brightening every flavor.
• Large ripe tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, they form the core of the skillet’s sauce.
• Crushed tomato: Adds body and deeper tomato flavor—just two tablespoons needed.
• Vegetable or chicken broth: For extra depth and to help everything simmer together smoothly.
• Crushed chili pepper: A whisper of heat that plays perfectly with sausage and tomatoes.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties the entire dish together.
• Fennel seeds: Lightly crushed, these boost the sausage’s aromatic, almost sweet flavor.
• Scallion: Sliced fresh over the top for a touch of sharp brightness and color.
• Fresh basil: Chopped and sprinkled as a garnish for summer-fresh aroma and taste.

How to Make CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until just al dente—about 9 to 11 minutes. This is key, as you want the pasta tender but still a little firm since it’ll finish with the sauce later. Once it’s ready, drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Sausage

Warm a generous splash of oil in your skillet or FIREDISC over medium heat (don’t worry if you don’t have a FIREDISC; any wide skillet will do). Nestle in the Italian sausages and let them brown on all sides, turning as needed, for 5 to 7 minutes. Add a splash (about 1/4 cup) of water to prevent sticking and keep those delicious brown bits intact. When sausages are nearly cooked, remove from the skillet and transfer to a cutting board, carefully pouring off any excess water but leaving all the flavorful bits behind.

Step 3: Sauté Onions, Fennel & Aromatics

Return the skillet to medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil if the pan looks dry. Scatter in the red onion, crushed fennel seeds, crushed chili pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for a minute or two until the onions begin to soften and the spices release their amazing aroma. Add the minced garlic and crushed tomato, cooking another couple of minutes, stirring frequently so nothing sticks.

Step 4: Add Peppers & Tomatoes

Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and fresh diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let this mixture cook for about 3 minutes, just until the peppers are vibrant and slightly tender. Pour in the broth and bring everything up to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce come together. Season with salt and plenty of cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Slice and Return the Sausage

Slice your nearly-cooked sausages into thick coins (about ¼ to ½ inch) and return them, along with any juices, to the skillet. Tuck the sausage pieces down into the sauce and simmer everything together for 5 to 10 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and the sauce thicken slightly. This step is where the magic happens—the sausage releases its juices and gives so much flavor to the sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Pasta and Garnish

Add the drained penne to the skillet, gently stirring so the pasta gets thoroughly coated in the fragrant sauce. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Right before serving, toss on chopped fresh basil, sliced scallions, and, if you like, a flurry of parmesan cheese. Welcome to dinner bliss—CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET style!

How to Serve CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET

Garnishes

Go wild with fresh basil and scallions for a pop of freshness and color just before serving. A generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese takes every bite over the top, adding richness and an irresistible savory note. Even a little drizzle of good olive oil can make this skillet shine!

Side Dishes

Serve your CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET with crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce, or a lemony green salad to brighten the meal. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccolini make wonderful partners, keeping things vibrant but easy.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the sausage pasta into warmed shallow bowls and topping with torn mozzarella for a melty, cheesy twist. Or, pile it high in a colorful serving platter, let everyone dig in family-style, and tuck in extra garnishes around the edges for a festive, shareable vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before scooping into airtight containers. CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it ideal for lunchboxes or a quick dinner redo. Be sure not to overdry the pasta during reheating—keep a little sauce nestled alongside.

Freezing

This skillet supper freezes surprisingly well: place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, trying to make sure the pasta is coated in sauce. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally. The microwave works too, just cover to avoid drying out and stir halfway through. Always reheat until piping hot all the way through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET?

Absolutely! While penne is fantastic for catching every bit of sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Use whatever you love or have on hand.

What’s the best way to make this dish less spicy?

If you’re sensitive to heat, simply cut back or omit the crushed chili pepper. You’ll still get tons of rich flavor from the sausage, fennel, and seasonings but none of the extra kick.

Can I make CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET with chicken or turkey sausage?

Definitely! Just use your favorite seasoned chicken or turkey sausage and cook as the recipe suggests. These options are leaner and still absorb all the bold flavors of the skillet.

How can I add even more veggies?

This skillet loves additions—toss in spinach, zucchini, or sliced mushrooms with the bell pepper for more color, nutrients, and texture. Just don’t overcrowd the pan so everything cooks evenly.

Do I have to use fresh tomatoes, or will canned work?

In a pinch, you can absolutely use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh—just drain them slightly so the sauce isn’t too watery. The flavor will still be wonderful, and the skillet just as easy.

Final Thoughts

Ready to make your next weeknight dinner a total breeze? Dive in and try CHRISTINA’S 20-MINUTE SAUSAGE PASTA SKILLET—it’s the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation. Simple enough for busy nights but irresistibly tasty every single time, it’s a dish you’ll look forward to sharing with your favorite people. Enjoy every messy, saucy forkful!

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