Are you looking for easy, healthy, and delicious dinner ideas that don't require hours of slaving over a hot stove? Then look no further! This slow cooker ground sausage recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a simple, flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients and ready when you are. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this! This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, transforming humble ingredients into a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: Before placing anything in your slow cooker, start by browning the ground sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step helps to render some of the fat and add depth of flavor to your final dish. Break up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned sausage and sautéed onion-garlic mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the sausage is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, rice, polenta, or mashed potatoes. This delicious dish is also great served with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd your slow cooker: Ensure there’s enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice, depending on your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes would add a nice kick!
- Use different types of sausage: Experiment with different sausage flavors, such as spicy chorizo or mild breakfast sausage.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage Ragu: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground sausage with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Creamy Sausage: Stir in a ½ cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This slow cooker ground sausage recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. It's a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Enjoy!