Step into a world of flavor with our Creamy Sausage & Peppers Pasta Shells Extravaganza, a dish that beautifully marries the heartiness of Italian sausage with the sweet and savory notes of bell peppers, all nestled in tender pasta shells. This dish is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with love, resulting in a comforting, creamy creation that's sure to warm your heart and satisfy your soul.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 2 cups
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 300g (10.5 oz) pasta shells
- 200g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 150ml (5 oz) heavy cream
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 30ml (1 oz) olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion, sautéing until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Return the sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Cook until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For an extra kick, choose spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, a little pasta water can be added to reach your desired consistency.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad and a glass of robust red wine for a complete, satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells are ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if necessary.
As the last forkful of the Creamy Sausage & Peppers Pasta Shells Extravaganza disappears, a sense of contentment settles over the table. This dish isn't just a meal; it's a journey through the heart of comfort food, leaving you with fond memories and a longing for more. Until next time, may your kitchen be filled with love, laughter, and dishes that bring joy to all who taste them.