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Transform your favorite pizza toppings into a cozy one-pot pasta that comes together in just 30 minutes. This clever combination marries the best of both worlds - the comfort of pasta with all those beloved pizza flavors. It's the kind of recipe that makes everyone happy on busy weeknights.
Last time I made this, my kids actually cheered when they saw what was for dinner. That's when I knew this recipe was going into our permanent rotation.
Essential Ingredients
- Italian sausage: Creates a rich, flavorful base
- Short pasta: Rotini catches every bit of sauce perfectly
- Fresh mushrooms: Add an earthy depth
- Quality tomato paste: Concentrated flavor that makes everything pop
- Fresh mozzarella: Creates those irresistible cheese pulls
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Detailed Instructions
- Sausage Foundation:
- Cook your sausage until it's nicely browned, creating those flavorful crusty bits.
- Veggie Symphony:
- Add your trinity of onions, peppers, and mushrooms until they release their flavors.
- Tomato Integration:
- Stir in that concentrated tomato paste, coating everything in rich, red goodness.
- Pasta Perfection:
- Let those noodles cook right in the savory broth, drinking up all that flavor.
- Cheesy Finale:
- Fold in the molten mozzarella, watching it create strings of happiness.
Last week, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of dried basil along with the oregano takes this dish to the next level. My Italian neighbor even asked for the recipe - now that's a true compliment!
Beyond Basic Toppings
Think outside the pizza box! Try adding pepperoni slices in the last few minutes of cooking. Toss in some black olives for that classic pizza parlor taste. For veggie lovers, baby spinach wilted in at the end adds color and nutrition.
Make It Your Own
Switch up the sausage spicy Italian adds a nice kick, while turkey sausage makes it lighter. Sometimes I add a splash of red wine with the broth for extra depth. For mushroom lovers, a mix of different varieties creates amazing flavor.
Keep It Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid, so when reheating, add a splash of broth to bring back that perfect saucy consistency.
Quick Fix Dinner
Prep your veggies on the weekend for even faster assembly. Keep portions of browned sausage in the freezer - it's a great shortcut for busy nights.
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Through many iterations of this recipe, I've found that it's more than just a quick dinner - it's a crowd-pleasing solution to the eternal \"what's for dinner?\" question. The way it combines familiar pizza flavors with the comfort of pasta makes it a winner every time. Whether you're feeding picky kids or discerning adults, this one-pot wonder rarely disappoints.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works well. Just follow package cooking times.
- → What vegetables can I add?
- Try olives, spinach, or cherry tomatoes. Any pizza topping you enjoy will work well in this pasta.
- → Can I use turkey sausage?
- Yes, Italian turkey sausage works great as a lighter alternative to pork sausage.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
- → Can I make it vegetarian?
- Skip the sausage and add extra vegetables or meat alternatives like plant-based sausage.