Skillet Pasta
A hearty skillet pasta featuring spicy Italian sausage, tender seashell pasta, and rich stewed tomatoes, all seasoned with garlic and onions. This flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chopped sausage in a skillet.
- Add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes, water, and pasta.
- Cook until pasta is tender.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier dish, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes. You can substitute seashell pasta with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. If you're short on time, use canned diced tomatoes instead of stewed. For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream or use a recipe like Easy Classic Lasagna for a different take on Italian flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet pasta is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience. For added texture, top with freshly chopped basil or parsley and serve with Parmesan on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the skillet and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Pasta contains roughly 948 calories, with 45g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (91% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1695mg per serving (74% 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 use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the hot Italian sausage with mild sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just ensure that any sausage you choose is fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a savory depth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture while maintaining the heartiness of the dish.
What can I do if the pasta is too dry?
If you find the pasta is too dry after cooking, simply add a little more water or broth while it's cooking. Stir well to incorporate the liquid. If serving leftovers, you can always add a splash of water when reheating to help restore moisture.
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).