Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This easy spaghetti with sausage recipe is a perfect example of delicious homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, a satisfying quick dinner idea, and a surefire crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Get ready to experience a taste of Italy without the fuss!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 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, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Remove the sausage from its casings. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
Step 4: Add the Sausage and Cook the Pasta
Add the browned sausage back to the sauce. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the sausage and sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).
Tips for the Best Spaghetti with Sausage:
- Choose your sausage wisely: Sweet Italian sausage offers a mild, savory flavor, while hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick. Experiment to find your favorite!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a perfect dish. It should be firm to the bite.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
Variations:
- Creamy Sausage Spaghetti: Stir in a 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Vegetarian Spaghetti: Substitute the sausage with crumbled plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms.
- Spicy Sausage Spaghetti: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy spaghetti with sausage recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and healthy. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!