Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This beef sausage and pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will love, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. This recipe is packed with hearty flavor, making it one of the best recipes for a simple yet impressive dinner. Get ready to enjoy this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian beef sausage (sweet or hot, your preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Remove the sausage from their casings if necessary. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This step adds incredible depth of flavor to the final dish. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic; low to medium heat is key here.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sauce and sausage. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This simple yet delicious pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend lunch.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce. Sauté them with the onions and garlic.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Use different sausage: Feel free to experiment with other types of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and serving size, but a general estimate for a serving of this recipe would be around 400-500 calories, with a good source of protein and carbohydrates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and serving size.
This beef sausage and pasta recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It's a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!