One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. Enter the One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo—a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with delightful flavors that everyone will love. This creamy pasta dish combines the rich taste of roasted red peppers with hearty turkey sausage, all cooked conveniently in one pot. Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes and hello to a delicious meal that will have your family asking for seconds!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This recipe stands out for its incredible ease and unique combination of flavors. The roasted red peppers lend a naturally sweet and smoky flavor, while the turkey sausage adds a satisfying protein punch. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional Alfredo thanks to the use of skim milk, whole-wheat pasta, and low-fat cheeses, proving that you can enjoy creamy comfort food without the guilt.
What Goes Into One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian turkey sausage
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced small
- 1 1/2 cups skim milk
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 16 ounces roasted red peppers (jar, drained and pureed)
- 12 ounces whole-wheat penne pasta
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 4 ounces ricotta cheese (part-skim, low-fat)
- 1/2 cup low-fat, shredded Parmesan
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This will be your cooking vessel for the entire dish.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping your vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
- Blender or food processor: For pureeing the roasted red peppers.
Cooking One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo: The Process
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the sausage is cooked through, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the Liquids
Stir in the skim milk and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Roasted Red Peppers
Add the pureed roasted red peppers to the pot. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Stir in the whole-wheat penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add the Greens and Cheeses
Once the pasta is cooked, fold in the fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and shredded Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve your One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
No-Store Runs Needed
One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses ingredients you may already have in your pantry or fridge. Here are some staples that can often be found at home:
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Onion
- Chicken broth
- Pasta
- Spinach
Things That Go Wrong
Even the best recipes can have hiccups. Here are a few common issues and how to avoid them:
- Pasta sticking: Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.
- Too thick sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth or milk to loosen it.
- Overcooked spinach: Add the spinach at the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to make it ahead of time:
You can prepare the turkey sausage and vegetable mixture a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and add the liquids and pasta when you’re ready to cook. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy sauce.
One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo Q&A
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While whole-wheat penne works beautifully, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the turkey sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether and add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables.
More from the Kitchen
If you’re enjoying this recipe, check out these delicious options for your next meal:
In Closing
With its creamy sauce, savory turkey sausage, and vibrant roasted red peppers, the One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a perfect embodiment of comfort food that doesn’t compromise on health or convenience. So go ahead, whip up this dish, and savor the delightful flavors that come together with minimal fuss!
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One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is cooked through, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the skim milk and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
- Add the pureed roasted red peppers to the pot. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Stir in the whole-wheat penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, fold in the fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and shredded Parmesan. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve your One Pot Turkey Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be made ahead by preparing the sausage and vegetable mixture and adding the liquids and pasta later.
- The recipe can be made vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or additional vegetables.
