Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal? Look no further than the Hot Dago Sandwich! This classic comfort food is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget takeout – this recipe is your ticket to homemade deliciousness, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's a fantastic example of how easy and quick healthy meals can be. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 6 long rolls (hoagie rolls or sub rolls work best)
- 6 slices provolone cheese (or your favorite cheese)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
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Brown the sausage: Add the hot Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This process renders out the fat, making for a richer sauce. Remember to drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a thicker sauce. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld.
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Assemble the sandwiches: Preheat your oven's broiler. Slice the rolls open lengthwise. Spoon the sausage mixture generously onto the bottom halves of the rolls. Top each with a slice of provolone cheese and the top half of the roll.
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Broil to perfection: Broil the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are lightly toasted. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Serve and enjoy! Your delicious Hot Dago Sandwiches are ready to be served. They’re best enjoyed immediately, while the cheese is nice and stretchy!
Tips for the Best Hot Dago Sandwiches:
- Use high-quality sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key to this recipe. Look for a good quality Italian sausage with a nice blend of herbs and spices.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will help ensure the sausage browns evenly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder sandwich, omit the red pepper flakes. Or, for an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add some veggies: For added flavor and nutrients, consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Hot Dago: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Hot Dago: Substitute the Italian sausage with your favorite vegetarian sausage crumbles or lentils for a hearty meatless meal.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sharp cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per sandwich, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This easy recipe for a Hot Dago Sandwich is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect example of a delicious dish that's also a healthy meal option. Enjoy the flavorful comfort of this classic sandwich!