Large Shell Macaroni And Sausage
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring large shell macaroni coated in a savory sausage tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. Finished with a creamy sour cream and Parmesan topping, this comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and those craving a rich, satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat; drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped bell pepper and onion; cook until tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; cut up the tomatoes with a fork.
- Add sugar, salt, and chili powder; mix well.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook large shell macaroni according to package directions; drain thoroughly.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Stir in sour cream and heat thoroughly.
- Pass the grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try using turkey sausage instead of bulk sausage. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. If you like it spicier, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For additional flavor, fresh herbs like basil or oregano can really enhance the dish. Pairing this with a fresh salad can balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Large Shell Macaroni and Sausage with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A side of garlic bread complements the dish wonderfully, and a simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast. This meal pairs beautifully with a slice of Kip'S Strawberry Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Large Shell Macaroni and Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Large Shell Macaroni And Sausage contains roughly 365 calories, with 10g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1928mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage and sauce mixture a day in advance. Just store it separately from the cooked macaroni. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and combine with the macaroni, then stir in the sour cream before serving.
What can I substitute for the large shell macaroni?
If you don’t have large shell macaroni, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. You could also use gluten-free pasta if you're looking for a gluten-free option.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, where it can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, as this will help maintain the texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).