Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of roasted peppers and the heartiness of chicken sausage. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for various occasions, from a cozy family dinner to entertaining guests. With its creamy sauce and vibrant flavors, it stands out as a comforting and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and roasted bell peppers creates a rich and smooth sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, you can have this flavorful dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute the shrimp with your favorite seafood or even go meatless by omitting the protein entirely.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the dish make it visually appealing on any dinner table, adding to its charm.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this dish, making it an excellent choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything at hand will make preparing this delicious meal easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Baking tray
• Blender or food processor
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling spaghetti, allowing you to cook pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and bringing out their flavors while keeping everything contained.
• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating a smooth sauce from the roasted bell peppers, ensuring a perfect texture.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 400 g spaghetti
• Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

• 2 large red bell peppers
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 120 ml heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Protein

• 120 g chicken sausage, sliced
• 250 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

How to Make Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Place the bell peppers on a baking tray and roast for 15–20 minutes, turning once until blistered.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 120 ml (½ cup) of pasta water.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken Sausage

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

Add another 1 tbsp of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then add the chopped roasted bell peppers, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 5: Blend the Sauce

Transfer the bell pepper mixture to a blender or food processor. Add heavy cream, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Sauce with Sausage

Return the blended sauce to the skillet over low heat. Stir in cooked chicken sausage and keep warm.

Step 7: Cook Shrimp

In a separate pan, quickly sear shrimp over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side until cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Toss Spaghetti with Sauce

Add drained spaghetti to the sauce in the skillet, tossing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Gently fold in cooked shrimp. Divide among plates, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired, then serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage!

How to Serve Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

Serving Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Pair with Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges: Serve alongside to add a zesty kick when squeezed over the pasta.

Add Cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese: Offer freshly grated cheese for those who enjoy a creamier texture and additional flavor.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia can also be a delightful pairing.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

Achieving the perfect Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.
• Adjust cream to taste: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
• Sauté sausage until crispy: Ensure the chicken sausage is slightly crispy for added texture in every bite.
• Reserve pasta water: Always save some pasta water; it helps adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Sear shrimp just until cooked through for a tender texture without being rubbery.
• Blend sauce well: For a silky smooth sauce, blend until completely smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

Pairing side dishes with your spaghetti can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of this dish.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a fresh crunch that pairs well with creamy sauces.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a delightful way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a low-carb option that complements your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the bell peppers enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a delicious depth to your sauce.
• Not salting the pasta water: Salting your boiling water is crucial for flavor. Always add salt to the water before cooking spaghetti for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them closely. Remove them from heat as soon as they’re pink and opaque to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Reserved pasta water is key for adjusting sauce consistency. Always set aside some before draining the spaghetti.
• Forgetting to blend the sauce thoroughly: A smooth sauce is essential for a creamy texture. Blend the bell pepper mixture well to achieve that desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water while warming gently, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or beef sausage based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and shrimp. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead.

What can I serve with Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the peppers and prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices! Spinach or kale would be great additions for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Creamy Bell Pepper chicken sausage is not only delicious but also versatile. This Mediterranean-inspired dish offers plenty of room for customization; feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week!