If you're looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that’s full of bold flavors, Sausage Spaghetti is your answer.
This dish combines the comforting, familiar taste of pasta with the savory richness of Italian sausage, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The sausage adds a hearty texture and a burst of flavor, while the tomato-based sauce ties everything together in a hearty, flavorful way. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a crowd, this sausage spaghetti recipe is a crowd-pleaser and easy to whip up in less than an hour.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to prepare a savory sausage spaghetti with the perfect balance of spices, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. The addition of garlic, onions, and a little red pepper flake makes this pasta dish unforgettable. Plus, it's versatile enough to adapt to different types of sausage and sauce variations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This dish comes together quickly and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of sausage, tomatoes, garlic, and spices creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile that pairs perfectly with pasta.
- Customizable: Use your favorite type of sausage—Italian, spicy, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. You can also adjust the spice level and add extra veggies.
- Comfort Food: It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, offering that perfect balance of carbs, protein, and sauce.
Ingredients
For this delicious sausage spaghetti, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
- Salt (for boiling pasta)
Optional Garnishes:
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
- Red pepper flakes for extra heat
- Fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Once the pasta is done, drain it and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Brown the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes, until fully cooked and no longer pink. If there's any excess fat, carefully drain it off.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is cooked through, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Make the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan, stirring to combine with the sausage and vegetables. Stir in the oregano, basil, and sugar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready and has reached your desired thickness, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it's evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little more pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once the pasta is well-coated in the sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Sausage Spaghetti
- Use Fresh Sausage: If you can, buy sausage in bulk and remove the casing for a fresher, meatier texture. Fresh sausage will give the dish a better overall flavor.
- Customize Your Sausage: This recipe works with any type of sausage. Mild Italian sausage will create a more balanced flavor, while spicy sausage will add a nice kick. You can also try chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Add Extra Veggies: For more nutrients, try adding spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic for extra flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente. It will continue to cook a little in the sauce, and you want to preserve its texture and firmness.
- Make it Ahead: This sausage spaghetti keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and it also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little water or broth to revive the sauce.
FAQs About Sausage Spaghetti
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta can work just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
2. Can I make sausage spaghetti with non-pork sausage?
Yes! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative. Just ensure the sausage is well-seasoned to get that robust flavor.
3. Can I freeze sausage spaghetti?
Yes, this dish freezes very well. Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove, adding a little extra water or broth to loosen up the sauce.
4. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like your sausage spaghetti with more heat, there are several ways to spice it up. You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce, add diced fresh chili peppers (like jalapeños), or use a spicy sausage to kick up the heat.
5. Can I make the sauce without tomato paste?
While tomato paste adds depth and richness to the sauce, you can still make a delicious sausage spaghetti without it. If you don't have tomato paste on hand, simply use extra crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer a little longer to thicken. You may also consider adding a small amount of tomato sauce or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor.
6. How do I store leftover sausage spaghetti?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of pasta water to help loosen up the sauce.
This sausage spaghetti recipe combines all the elements of a hearty, flavorful meal, from the savory sausage to the rich tomato sauce. It’s a one-pan dinner that’s not only easy to make but also a sure way to impress anyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will quickly become a favorite. So grab your favorite sausage and pasta, and get ready to enjoy a plate of comforting Italian goodness!
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