Creamy Sausage & Peppers Shells
Ingredients
- Kosher salt
- 3/4 lb. medium pasta shells
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
divided
- 1 lb. sweet or spicy Italian sausage
casings removed
- 3 medium red
yellow, or orange bell peppers, stemmed, seeded, ribs removed, finely chopped , about 3 c.
- 1 medium yellow onion
chopped, about 1 1/2 c.
- 4 cloves garlic
finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 6 oz. cream cheese
cubed
- 1/2 c. heavy cream
- 1/4 c. finely grated Parmesan
plus more for serving
- 5 oz. baby spinach leaves
about 5 packed c.
Directions
- 1
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente, usually 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Reserve 2 cups pasta water and drain pasta.
- 2
Meanwhile, in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Cook sausage, breaking up with a wooden spoon, until cooked through and browned, about 8 minutes.
- 3
Add bell peppers, onion, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until light golden and tender, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes more.
- 4
Pour 1 1/2 cups reserved pasta water into skillet, then add cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, stirring, until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Add pasta and return sausage to skillet. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if needed. Add spinach and stir until just wilted, about 2 minutes.
- 5
Divide pasta among bowls. Top with more Parmesan.
Creamy Sausage & Peppers Shells
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About this Recipe
Craving the hearty, comforting flavors of Italian sausage and peppers but looking for a fresh, easy weeknight dinner? This Creamy Sausage & Peppers Shells recipe reimagines a classic, bringing all those beloved tastes into a rich, satisfying pasta dish that comes together in just 35 minutes.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it translates classic hoagie fillings into a luxurious pasta experience. We've taken the beloved combination of savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onion, then tossed it with tender medium pasta shells in a silky, indulgent sauce. The addition of cream cheese and heavy cream creates an unbelievably rich and creamy texture that perfectly coats every bite, ensuring a truly comforting meal.
Prepare for a dish that is deeply savory, with a wonderful interplay of flavors. You'll taste the robust, aromatic Italian sausage, complemented by the sweet notes of finely chopped red, yellow, or orange bell peppers and sweet yellow onion. A hint of garlic and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes (if you opt for spicy sausage, or just for a little kick) add depth without overpowering. The medium pasta shells are ideal for catching every bit of that rich, velvety sauce, and fresh baby spinach is stirred in at the end, wilting just enough to add a touch of color and freshness. The finishing touch of Parmesan brings a nutty, salty flourish that ties everything together into a cohesive, flavorful experience.
This recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to adapt. Feel free to use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference for heat. You can also mix and match your favorite bell pepper colors—red, yellow, and orange all work beautifully, adding both flavor and visual appeal. For an extra touch of herbaceousness, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley would be a welcome addition, though it’s perfectly delicious as is. A little extra grated Parmesan at the table is always a good idea.
Serve this Creamy Sausage & Peppers Shells as a complete meal for a cozy family dinner or when you need a comforting dish after a busy day. It’s hearty enough on its own, but a simple green salad would be a lovely light accompaniment.