Video Guide

If you prefer a visual guide, watch our quick video demonstration below to see just how effortlessly this delicious Kielbasa Pepper Pasta comes together!

Time Needed: Get Dinner on the Table Fast!

Efficiency is key with this recipe, designed to minimize your time in the kitchen. To achieve the remarkable 20-minute cook time, the trick is to multitask. Begin by setting your pasta water to boil and chopping your vegetables and kielbasa while the water heats up. As soon as the pasta is in the pot, start sautéing your kielbasa and then the vegetables in a separate large skillet. By the time your pasta is al dente, your kielbasa and peppers will be perfectly cooked and ready to be combined. This parallel cooking approach ensures a swift and stress-free meal preparation.

For those who prioritize minimal cleanup over speed, a one-pot method is also an option, though it will extend the total time slightly to around 35 minutes. To do this, cook the pasta first, then drain it and set it aside. Use the same pot to brown the kielbasa and then sauté the vegetables. Finally, return the cooked pasta to the pot with the kielbasa and vegetables, tossing everything together. This method reduces dishwashing, making it perfect for nights when convenience is paramount. Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll be enjoying a hearty meal in under 40 minutes.

What You Need to Make Delicious Kielbasa Pepper Pasta

• Bowtie Pasta: Also known as farfalle, bowtie pasta is fantastic for catching all the delicious bits of sauce and vegetable. Its shape adds a fun visual element, especially appealing to kids. However, this recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to use other sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, ziti, or even macaroni. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties also work wonderfully if you’re looking for dietary alternatives.
• Green & Red Bell Pepper: These colorful additions not only bring a vibrant aesthetic to the dish but also a sweet, crisp texture and essential vitamins. Green bell peppers offer a slightly more pungent, earthy flavor, while red bell peppers are sweeter and milder. Don’t hesitate to incorporate yellow or orange bell peppers for an even broader spectrum of color and taste – any combination will do!
• Red Onion: Red onion adds a touch of sharpness and a beautiful purple hue when lightly sautéed. It mellows significantly during cooking, developing a delightful sweetness. If red onion isn’t available, a yellow or white onion will work perfectly fine, offering a similar foundational savory note to the dish.
• Butter: A tablespoon of butter is used to sauté the vegetables, providing a rich, subtle flavor that enhances the overall depth of the dish. While vegetable oil or olive oil can certainly be used as substitutes, butter truly elevates the taste, giving the vegetables a lovely, golden finish. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter alternative.
• Beef Polska Kielbasa: This pre-cooked, smoked sausage is the star protein of the dish, offering a robust, smoky, and slightly garlicky flavor. Its pre-cooked nature means less work for you, as it just needs to be browned to develop a delicious crust and heat through. You can also use pork kielbasa, turkey kielbasa, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative if you prefer. Ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the pan.
• Salt & Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out and balancing all the flavors in the dish. Start with the suggested amounts and always taste and adjust to your preference before serving. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added for a subtle kick if you enjoy a little heat.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a fantastic garnish that adds a salty, umami depth to the finished pasta. While optional, it’s highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor and creamy texture when melted slightly over the warm dish.

(See recipe card below for exact quantities and detailed instructions.)

How to Make This Flavorful Kielbasa Pepper Pasta

Creating this delightful pasta dish is incredibly simple, making it perfect for even the busiest evenings. Follow these steps for a perfectly executed meal:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta (or your chosen pasta shape) and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). While the pasta cooks, proceed with preparing the other ingredients to maximize efficiency. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. You can reserve about half a cup of pasta water if you wish to loosen the sauce later, though it’s usually not necessary for this recipe.

2. Chop the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and prepare your vegetables. Slice the green and red bell peppers into thin strips or chop them into bite-sized pieces, whichever you prefer. Finely chop the red onion. Uniformly sized pieces ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in every bite, preventing some pieces from being raw while others are overcooked.

3. Slice the Kielbasa: Slice the fully cooked beef Polska kielbasa crosswise into ¼ to ½-inch thick rounds. If you prefer, you can then halve or quarter these rounds for smaller, more manageable pieces in the pasta. This size is ideal for even browning and ensures a good distribution of kielbasa throughout the dish.

4. Sauté the Kielbasa: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and sauté until it starts to brown and caramelize slightly on both sides. This browning process is crucial for developing a richer, more intense flavor and a pleasant texture. The natural fats from the kielbasa will render, adding to the dish’s richness and providing a flavorful base for the vegetables.

5. Cook the Vegetables: Once the kielbasa has browned, push it to one side of the pan to create a cleared area. Add the tablespoon of butter to this empty space. As the butter melts and sizzles, add the chopped red onion and bell peppers. Stir the vegetables well to coat them in the melted butter and the rendered kielbasa fat. Season generously with salt and pepper. Continue to cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp – they should still have a slight bite but be softened. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Once tender, mix the vegetables into the kielbasa.

6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked, drained pasta directly to the skillet with the kielbasa and vegetables. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the pasta is evenly coated with the savory flavors. Serve immediately. For an added touch of freshness and flavor, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Kielbasa Pepper Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these simple tips in mind:

• Prep Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and slicing the kielbasa in advance can significantly cut down on the active cooking time, truly making this a 20-minute meal. Store prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge for even quicker assembly on a busy weeknight.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the kielbasa and vegetables, ensure you’re using a large enough skillet. Overcrowding can steam the ingredients instead of browning them, preventing that delicious caramelization and tender-crisp texture. If necessary, cook the kielbasa in two batches to achieve optimal browning.
• Al Dente Pasta: Always cook your pasta to al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot skillet with the other ingredients. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and less enjoyable, affecting the overall texture of the dish.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t forget to season at each stage. Salting your pasta water is essential for flavored pasta, and seasoning the vegetables while they cook ensures deep flavor throughout the dish. Taste and adjust before serving to achieve the perfect balance.

Make It Your Own: Customizing Your Kielbasa Pepper Pasta

This recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to experiment and adapt it to your preferences or what you have available. It’s designed to be a forgiving canvas for culinary creativity:

• Pasta Perfection: While bowtie pasta offers a delightful texture and visual appeal, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rotini, cavatappi, or even spaghetti can all work beautifully. For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta, which also adds extra fiber and protein.
• Veggie Variations: Don’t limit yourself to just bell peppers and red onion. This dish is perfect for using up other vegetables in your fridge. Consider adding sliced mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes (halved), fresh spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted), frozen corn, or even blanched broccoli florets. Adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables to ensure they are tender-crisp.
• Add a Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, introduce some spice! A pinch of red pepper flakes sautéed with the vegetables can add a subtle warmth. For more intense heat, finely chop a jalapeño or serrano pepper and cook it alongside the bell peppers. A dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before serving is also an easy way to customize individual portions.
• Cheesy Goodness: For those who love a creamier, cheesier pasta, stir in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses just before removing the skillet from the heat. The residual heat will quickly melt the cheese, creating a luscious coating. A splash of cream or milk can also be added with the cheese for an even richer, more indulgent sauce.
• Protein Power-Ups: While kielbasa is fantastic, you can easily swap it out or add other proteins. Cooked chicken sausage, smoked turkey, or even browned ground Italian sausage (pork or turkey) would be delicious. For a vegetarian option, consider plant-based sausages or a combination of cannellini beans and extra vegetables for protein.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish with minimal effort. A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, basil, or chives just before serving adds a vibrant, aromatic finish. Dried Italian seasoning can also be added during the vegetable cooking phase for an herbaceous depth that complements the other flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Kielbasa Pepper Pasta is a complete meal on its own, packed with protein, carbohydrates, and vibrant vegetables. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner, consider pairing it with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is also an excellent addition, perfect for soaking up any lingering savory flavors from the pan. For a lighter touch, steamed green beans, asparagus, or a medley of roasted root vegetables make perfect accompaniments, adding more fiber and nutrients to your meal.

Storage & Reheating for Later

Leftovers of this Kielbasa Pepper Pasta are just as delicious, making it an excellent meal prep option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and food safety.

• Storage: Allow the pasta to cool completely to room temperature (within two hours) before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it promptly in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures its freshness and prevents bacterial growth.
• Freezing: While possible, pasta dishes with peppers can sometimes become a bit watery or soft after freezing and thawing. If you choose to freeze, store in freezer-safe airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet on the stovetop for best results.
  • Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to help moisten the pasta and prevent it from drying out, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through.
  • Stovetop: Transfer the pasta to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth and stir gently, covering the pan, until the pasta is heated through. This method helps prevent the pasta from drying out and can help re-crisp any vegetables.

  Avoid over-reheating, as this can make the pasta mushy and the vegetables too soft. Add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan if desired after reheating.

Kielbasa Pepper Pasta Recipe

Colorful Kielbasa Pepper Pasta is an easy dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes. This easy kielbasa recipe has just six ingredients plus salt and pepper and is full of flavor!

Author: Mary Ann

Ingredients

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced or chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced or chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 12 ounces beef Polska kielbasa, fully cooked and sliced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• Parmesan cheese, optional for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook 12 ounces bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While pasta cooks, slice 1 green pepper and 1 red bell pepper. Chop ¼ cup red onion.
3. Slice 12 ounces beef Polska kielbasa crosswise into ¼ to ½-inch thick rounds.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until it starts to brown and slightly crisp.
5. Push kielbasa to the side of the pan and add 1 tablespoon butter to the cleared area. When butter melts, add peppers and onion. Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir vegetables to coat and cook until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Mix vegetables into the kielbasa.
6. Add the cooked, drained pasta to the skillet with the kielbasa and vegetables. Toss gently until well combined. Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Nutrition data does not include optional Parmesan cheese garnish. For a one-pot method, cook pasta first, drain, then use the same pot to cook kielbasa and vegetables before returning pasta to the pot.

Nutrition per serving

• Calories: 424 cal
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Protein: 16 g
• Fat: 19 g
• Sodium: 614 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Net Carbohydrates: 43 g

Whether you’re looking for a lightning-fast weeknight dinner, a satisfying one-pot meal, or a flexible recipe to customize, this Kielbasa Pepper Pasta ticks all the boxes. Its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and simple preparation make it a true kitchen hero. Give it a try tonight and discover your new favorite quick meal!