Whole Wheat Penne Sausage
Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Whole Wheat Penne Sausage recipe is a comforting weeknight dinner that’s both hearty and nutritious. Featuring al dente whole wheat penne pasta tossed in a rich, homemade tomato sauce, this dish is elevated with savory crumbles of Italian sausage, sautéed onion, and sweet bell peppers. Accented with garlic, dried herbs, and a hint of optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, every bite is bursting with robust Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Quick to prepare in just 45 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for busy days without sacrificing taste. Don’t forget to top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for a restaurant-quality finish. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a wholesome pasta dinner, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to satisfy!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
- 4 links Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 medium bell pepper (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 cups Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, chopped)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Remove the casing from the Italian sausage links and crumble the sausage into the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until browned and fully cooked. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
696 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.3 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 58 mg | 19% | |
| Sodium | 1155 mg | 50% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 81.3 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.2 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.9 g | ||
| Protein | 29.7 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 205 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1321 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
