Quick Description
This High-Protein Sausage and Pepper Noodles recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines ground Italian sausage, bell peppers, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Paired with tender egg noodles and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both filling and full of protein.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients List
Pasta & Meat Mixture
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked to your liking
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (use lean for a healthier version)
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup white cooking wine
Tomato Sauce & Seasoning
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes, not drained
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the peppers soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add Wine & Tomatoes
Stir in the white cooking wine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined and heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Serve
Serve the Sausage and Pepper Noodles hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Benefits
- High-Protein Meal – packed with sausage and noodles
- Hearty & Flavorful – savory and rich in Italian seasoning
- Quick & Easy – ready in under 35 minutes
- Perfect for Meal Prep – makes a great lunch or dinner
- Customizable – add your favorite vegetables or extra protein
Additional Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier, low-carb alternative.
- For extra veggies, add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Dietary Info
High-Protein: ✅
Low-Carb Option: ✅ (use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash)
Gluten-Free Option: ✅ (use gluten-free pasta)
Dairy-Free Option: ✅ (omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives)
Brief Introduction
This savory Sausage and Pepper Noodles dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. With protein-rich sausage, tender pasta, and a delicious tomato-based sauce, it’s a meal that will satisfy the whole family.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cook egg noodles and set aside.
- Brown the sausage and cook the bell peppers and garlic.
- Add white wine, tomatoes, and seasonings, then simmer.
- Combine noodles with the sauce and heat through.
- Serve hot!
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Ground Sausage:
Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers:
Feel free to use different colored peppers or even add some jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Pasta:
Use any pasta you prefer or substitute with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy version.
- Vegetable-Packed Version: Add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Cheesy Version: Top with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Serve With
- A side salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze: up to 2 months (store in individual portions).
Reheat: microwave or stovetop.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before adding the noodles.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Add mushrooms, spinach, or any other veggies you love to boost the nutrition.
Optional Personal Story
This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners growing up. It’s quick, satisfying, and everyone in my family always loves it. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
