Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food that combines the bold flavors of Italian cuisine in one mouthwatering dish! This Pepperoni Sausage Pasta with Aglio Olio is not just another pasta recipe – it's a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti dancing with crispy pepperoni, savory Italian sausage, and garlic-infused olive oil that will make your kitchen smell like a authentic Italian trattoria. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort classic!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup Italian sausage, crumbled
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure the spaghetti, pepperoni, Italian sausage, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and parsley are ready for use.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 cup of crumbled Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the 1 cup of sliced pepperoni to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pepperoni is slightly crispy and heated through.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sausage and pepperoni mixture. Pour in the 1/4 cup of olive oil and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season the pasta with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Pepperoni Sausage Pasta with Aglio Olio!
Tips
- For the most flavorful result, use high-quality olive oil and freshly minced garlic – these ingredients are the heart of the Aglio Olio technique.
- Don't overcook the garlic! It should be fragrant and golden, not burnt, to prevent a bitter taste.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining – the starchy water helps create a silky sauce and helps the ingredients stick together perfectly.
- Use a large skillet to ensure even cooking and easy tossing of the pasta with the meat and seasonings.
- For extra flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage if you like a bit more heat in your dish.
- Fresh parsley is crucial for garnish – it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the meat and oil.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature of the pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 85mg
