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One-Pot Spicy Sausage and Veggie Pasta

A hearty one-pot pasta with spicy sausage, vegetables, tomatoes, and parmesan. Simple, filling, and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 ounces spicy Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 1 small zucchini chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
  • 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 8 ounces short pasta such as penne or rotini
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil optional

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 knife
  • 1 cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, then cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, pasta, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
  6. Cook uncovered, stirring often, for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has become a sauce.
  7. Add a splash of broth or water if the pasta needs more time to cook.
  8. Stir in the parmesan cheese.
  9. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
  10. Serve warm with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

Use mild sausage if you want less heat. Short pasta shapes work best because they cook evenly in the sauce. If the pasta thickens too much after sitting, add a splash of broth, water, or milk when reheating.