Italian Sausage Puttanesca
Description
Dive into the rich, savory world of Italian Sausage Puttanesca, a delightful one-dish meal that marries the robust flavors of hot Italian sausage, kalamata olives, and capers with tender penne pasta. This recipe offers a harmonious balance of heat and savory goodness, perfect for those who enjoy a dish that packs a punch without overwhelming the palate. If you’re in the mood for a milder version, simply swap out the hot sausage for a milder option or even turkey Italian sausage to lighten things up. For those who crave an extra kick, feel free to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat to your liking. As you savor each bite, you may find yourself wanting to add even more capers and olives in your next cooking adventure.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 546.8 |
| Total Fat | 22.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 1214.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.1 g |
| Sugars | 9.6 g |
| Protein | 23.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 8 oz | Penne pasta |
| 8 oz | Hot Italian sausage |
| 1 | Onion (chopped) |
| 1 | Green bell pepper (chopped) |
| 3 | Garlic cloves (minced) |
| 2 cans | Chopped tomatoes |
| 1/2 cup | Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced) |
| 2 tbsp | Tomato paste |
| 1 tbsp | Capers |
| 1 tbsp | Anchovy paste |
| 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese (grated) |
Cooking Instructions
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Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside.
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While the pasta is cooking, take the hot Italian sausage and remove the casings. In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, sauté the sausage along with the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir frequently, breaking up the sausage as it cooks, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables have softened, which should take about 7 to 8 minutes.
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After the sausage and vegetables have cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat and drain off any excess fat.
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To the same skillet, add the chopped tomatoes, kalamata olives, tomato paste, capers, and anchovy paste. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to pulse the tomatoes in a food processor before adding them to the skillet for a chunkier sauce.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Remove the skillet from the heat once the sauce has simmered. Carefully add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and gently stir until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray an 8-inch square casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy serving.
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Spoon the sausage and pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top generously with grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to create a delicious, melty layer during baking.
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Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and begins to turn a lovely golden brown.
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Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This delightful Italian Sausage Puttanesca is best enjoyed hot, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for a touch of elegance.
This hearty dish makes a wonderful centerpiece for a family meal or a gathering with friends, and its bold flavors are sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy every savory bite!
