THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Pasta Orecchiette with Fennel, Sausage, and Sweet Peppers
This flavorful pasta dish combines savory sausage, sweet peppers, and aromatic fennel for a perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s an easy, comforting meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Pasta Orecchiette with Fennel, Sausage, and Sweet Peppers
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 475°F. Toss the bell peppers and fennel with some oil and thyme, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast the veggies for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re nice and tender.
02
Step 2
While the vegetables are roasting, warm up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and shallot, cooking until the sausage is browned and crumbly, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
03
Step 3
Next, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Throw in the orecchiette and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 12 to 14 minutes. Drain the pasta, but save a cup of the cooking water just in case.
04
Step 4
Add the pasta, tomato paste, garlic, and those roasted veggies to the skillet with the sausage. Cook everything together over medium heat for a couple of minutes until you can really smell the garlic. Pour in some of the reserved pasta water and let it simmer until the sauce thickens up to the consistency you like, around 3 to 5 minutes. Take it off the heat and stir in fresh basil before serving.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines the unique texture of orecchiette pasta with the sweet and savory flavors of fennel, sausage, and peppers. It’s a comforting meal that balances hearty ingredients with fresh, aromatic notes. Perfect for a cozy dinner that feels both special and satisfying.
How to serve
Serve this dish with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to add brightness. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on top enhances the flavors. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light red to complement the sausage and fennel.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sausage and peppers may change.
