Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Dive into the rich flavors of our Three Cheese Pasta Kielbasa Peppers, a delightful Italian-inspired recipe that combines the heartiness of kielbasa with the creaminess of three delectable cheeses. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a meal that serves six and is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to wow your guests, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Read on to discover how to create this cheesy, savory masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup diced kielbasa
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly crispy and golden brown.
- Add chopped bell peppers to the skillet with kielbasa. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until peppers are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.
- Drain pasta when cooked, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return pasta to the pot.
- Add the kielbasa and pepper mixture to the pasta. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Gently fold ingredients together, using reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce if needed.
- Continue stirring until cheeses are melted and ingredients are well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Three Cheese Pasta Kielbasa Peppers!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or rotini, to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Sauté Kielbasa Properly: Make sure to cook the kielbasa until it’s nicely browned for added texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Aim for a tender-crisp texture to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch, which adds a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon! Use it to adjust the creaminess of your sauce to your liking.
- Mix Cheeses for Depth: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Adding a bit of sharp cheddar or gouda can give a unique twist to the dish.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 334kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
